Family Allowances & CAF Benefits.

Start with JARI.

The CAF (family allowances fund) pays many benefits to families, but the system is complex: which allowances, under what conditions, how to register as a foreigner? JARI's Professional Services help you set up your CAF file, identify every benefit you're entitled to, and avoid the omissions that cost you money.

Registering with the CAF.

First create an account on caf.fr and get an allocataire number. You'll be asked for a valid residence permit, bank details (RIB), proof of address, and depending on the case your birth/marriage certificate (sometimes to be translated). Many benefits are means-tested: the CAF uses your taxable income.

Family allowances (2026 amounts).

Paid from the 2nd dependent child, they are adjusted to your income. Since April 2026, for 2 children the monthly amount is around €153 (lower incomes), €76, or €38 depending on your income bracket. A supplement applies for older children (now from age 18 for children born after March 2012).

Housing benefit (APL).

The APL (personalized housing assistance) reduces your rent based on income, location, and household size. It's often the most useful benefit for newcomers and students — run a simulation on caf.fr as soon as you move in.

Benefits for young children (PAJE).

The PAJE supports a child's arrival: a birth grant (paid after birth, means-tested), a monthly basic allowance, and the childcare supplement (CMG) that reimburses part of crèche or childminder costs. Amounts revalued in April 2026.

Back-to-school allowance (ARS).

Paid in August, means-tested, for children in school aged 6 to 18. 2026 amounts: about €429 (6-10), €453 (11-14), and €468 (15-18). It helps fund the new school year.

Other benefits to know.

Depending on your situation: RSA (active solidarity income), prime d'activité (for low-income workers), one-off aids. The golden rule: report any change (birth, move, income, separation) quickly to avoid overpayments.

Get support.

The CAF file, translations, means tests, and follow-up can be discouraging. Entrust the setup and follow-up of your file to JARI's Professional Services: you receive every benefit you're entitled to, error-free.

Going further.

Find the whole picture in Family life in France, the steps for pregnancy & birth, childcare, and schooling.

Useful links.

• caf.fr
• mesdroitssociaux.gouv.fr