In the UK and, indeed, many “Anglo-Saxon”, (as the French say) countries, trusts are a part of life for everyday financial, family and inheritance planning. We use them to ensure that our beneficiaries get what we want them to and in accordance with the timing and...
Tax & Tax Planning
PACS in France (Pacte Civil de Solidarité): What You Need to Know
Since November 1999, it has been possible for couples living in France to get a PACS, or “se Pacser”, meaning a Pacte Civil de Solidarité. The easy way for those in the UK to understand a PACS in France, is that it is the French equivalent of a civil partnership. PACS...
Important Financial Steps to Take When Retiring to France
Whether you have already retired to France or are looking to do so, it would be understandable if you saw the process largely in terms of choosing where to live in the country and purchasing a property, rather than necessarily devoting a lot of your attention to the...
How is income from UK assets taxed in France?
While we’re sure that you will want to spend plenty of your time as an expatriate in France immersing yourself in the kind of charms, amenities, and culture that you wouldn’t be able to expect in the UK, you will also probably wish to retain at least some aspects of...
What is the UK/France double tax treaty? And what does it mean for people living in France?
If you have moved from the UK to France, and now reside in the latter country, you will need to be aware of matters concerning taxation – including whether your circumstances necessitate you completing a French tax return, and whether you may also still be liable for...
Common French Tax Return Mistakes to Avoid
Considering the time of year, I was recently given the opportunity to discuss tax declarations, for the Connexion. Typically, I would politely decline such offers as my expertise lies in providing counsel rather than tax administration. While French accountants can...
Reviewing Financial Planning via a Spring Clean
As we bid farewell to winter and welcome the arrival of March, it's an opportune time for a little spring cleaning. Though the origins of this term have multiple interpretations, one prevailing explanation suggests its association with the era of coal-burning...
Understanding your French property tax obligations when moving to France
France can be a wonderfully rewarding part of the world in which to own a property; however, whether you have already purchased a property here or are contemplating doing so, you will need to be well-informed on your tax obligations. Here, then, are the essentials of...
Understanding French Property Wealth Tax: It’s Nothing to be Scared of!
For years, wealth tax has been a cause of concern in France. It has often deterred many wealthy non-residents from considering French residency. We have seen many people resort to some extreme measures such as setting up trusts or foreign companies to avoid this...
How Does Brexit Tax Changes Affect Expat Britons in France?
One of the most frequent questions I am asked by UK nationals this year is “What did Brexit change for us regarding our move to France?” This is not an unreasonable question, since it has undoubtedly changed many things, such as health and residency rights, so...