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As if filing taxes weren’t hard enough, now you need to do them in a foreign language.
Filing taxes in France for the first time can feel daunting, especially when you see the number of forms involved. If you’re feeling stuck and have questions about filing your French personal income tax return, here’s where you can get some help.
Please note that this blog post is based on my personal experience and does not constitute legal advice. I cannot advise you on how to file your taxes in France. Please contact the French tax office or a tax professional if you have any questions regarding your specific tax situation.
French Tax Office
This tax tip is going to sound so bizarre for Americans… The French tax office (Centre des finances publiques) is actually helpful and a free resource that you can tap into at tax season. Yes, they can answer questions about French taxes and even help you fill out the forms. It’s worth noting that their level of English is variable and location-dependent.
There are other limitations to their support. For example, I wouldn’t count on them knowing all the ins and outs for expat-specific questions. They also can’t give you personal financial advice. However, if you have a relatively simple tax return to complete, you can get the basics done and be well on your way.
Related: French Income Taxes: 6 Things You Need to Know
To reach the tax office, you can contact them through the messaging feature in your online account. Unfortunately, if you’re new to filing taxes in France, you might not have access to the online portal yet.
It’s also possible to go in person to your local French tax office. Look up your nearest Service impôts des particuliers (SIP) for hours, contact information, and online appointment booking. Depending on your location, some centers might offer walk-ins while others may require an appointment.
💡 Pro Tip: I know you’re eager to get things done, but don’t bother going too early. You’ll want to wait until the newest forms come out, which is typically in April. Keep tabs on this year’s tax calendar.
Maison France services
Maison France services is a place where you can go to get free help with various administrative procedures. They can assist you with a multitude of administrative tasks, such as declaring maternity leave, applying for financial aid, renewing your residence permit, filling out your French tax return, and much more.
Like with the tax office, Maison France services has similar limitations regarding the complexity of your personal situation. Similarly, assistance in English may or may not be available.
There are France services locations all around the country. Many accept walk-ins, while some may require an appointment.
Strictly Fiscal France Facebook Group
The Strictly Fiscal France Facebook Group was created to help English-speaking expats navigate finances, including taxes, in France. While there are some financial advisors in the group, not everyone is a qualified expert, so take the information and advice you find with a grain of salt.
Use the search feature in the group, consult the posted guides and resources, and ask questions if you’re still stuck. No matter how complex you might think your situation is, it’s very likely that someone else has already been through it!
Be aware that there are a variety of nationalities present in this group. Americans, in particular, need to make sure that they are getting the right advice since the United States is one of few countries to tax based on citizenship and not residency.
