FAQ
Can the QR-bill be used for paper-based payment instructions?
Yes, as is customary with red and orange payment slips, the payment part of the QR-bill can be enclosed with a payment instruction in paper form.
What is an "Alternative procedure"?
In the Swiss payment traffic, there are various methods for creating an invoice. A service provider (network partner) can convert the QR-bill into another method. The information required for this conversion can be found in the "Alternative procedure" field. The currently registered alternative procedures are published on PaymentStandards.ch.
Do I have to fill in the field "Alternative procedure" when I issue an invoice?
The use of this function is voluntary. Whether you have to enter an alternative procedure depends on what you have agreed with the invoice recipient or your network partner.
How can the QR-bill be used for online services?
With the payment information contained in the QR-bill, payments can be initiated in e- or m-banking, for example, or alternative payment methods such as eBill or TWINT.
Can the QR-bill be used for cash payments at the Swiss Post branch, at a branch with partner or at the bank counter?
Yes, such payments are possible with the QR-bill. Payment part and receipt must be separated from the invoice if the QR-bill is paid at the counter or with a physical payment order. For this reason, it is important that paper-based QR-bills are always printed on perforated paper. A receipt is also available for confirming payments.
Can the QR-bill in PDF format be used for paper-based payment instructions at the bank?
QR bills (or separate payment parts with receipt) in PDF format are only suitable for payments in e-/m-banking, but not for paper-based payment transactions at the counter. However, if they have to be paid at the counter, the payment part and receipt should be separated from the invoice. The payment part (without receipt) can then be attached to a payment order in paper form. When printing PDF files, it must be ensured that the format specifications are adhered to.
Is there any need for action when using account payable systems?
- Payment parts with QR-IBAN and QR reference may not be paid as an ISR. Payment as an ISR can lead to a rejection or an incorrect credit at the creditor bank.
- Check your accounts payable master data. If possible, make sure that the addresses are stored in a structured manner.
- Check whether your document scanner (reader) is affected by the QR-bill. All data is captured via the Swiss QR Code which can also be read with a smartphone.