In Czechia, businesses are allowed to digitise receipts and discard the original paper copies, s long as they meet specific legal requirements. This practice is regulated by the Accounting Act (No. 563/1991 Coll.) and the Value Added Tax Act.
Requirements
Paper receipts can be replaced with digital versions if the electronic copies:
- Are complete and legible;
- Maintain authenticity and integrity;
- Are stored in a secure, tamper-proof system for the full retention period.
Electronic signatures
Czech law recognises three types of electronic signatures. A simple electronic signature (e.g., a scanned image of a signature) is generally sufficient for most accounting documents.
However, a qualified electronic signature may be required for more sensitive or legally binding records.
Retention periods
Businesses must retain accounting records as follows:
- 5 years: General accounting records, including ledgers and supporting documentation;
- 10 years: Financial statements and annual reports.
All documents — whether paper or digital — must remain accessible, readable, and exportable throughout the retention period, especially in case of audit.