By Yasmine EDDAM
9 April 2025
The bill of exchange, also known as a draft, remains a financial instrument commonly used in the French business world. Frequently used in commercial relations, it facilitates payments and organises credit between companies. However, its handling is technical and its precise rules are sometimes misunderstood. A simple error in drafting can have serious consequences. This legal instrument is based on a mechanism generally involving three people and is subject to strict formalities dictated by the French Commercial Code. Understanding how to create a valid bill of exchange, what information it must contain and what the risks are in the event of failure to do so is therefore essential for any entrepreneur or financial manager. This article sets out these fundamental rules, so that you can use this tool in complete safety. What exactly is a bill of exchange? Before going into detail about the rules governing the form of bills of exchange, let's look at the basics...
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