How family benefits (CAF) work in France

CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) is the French public body responsible for paying many family and household benefits. It plays a central role in supporting families, parents, and households living in France.

This guide explains how CAF works, what kinds of benefits it manages, and what to expect when dealing with the system.

What CAF (Caisse Allocations familiales) is and what it does

CAF is responsible for administering and paying a wide range of benefits linked to family life, housing, and household income. These benefits are not automatic and usually require an application.

CAF operates nationally but works through local offices and online services. Most interactions with CAF now take place through its online portal.

Types of benefits CAF manages

CAF manages many different benefits, depending on your personal and family situation. Common examples include family allowances, childcare support, housing assistance, and benefits linked to income or household composition.

Eligibility and payment amounts depend on factors such as income, number of children, housing situation, and residency status.

Many CAF benefits are designed to support families with children, childcare costs, and housing expenses.

Who can apply for CAF benefits

Eligibility for CAF benefits is generally based on residency in France rather than nationality. Both French and non-French residents may be eligible, provided they meet residency and legal stay requirements.

Families, single parents, couples, and individuals may all interact with CAF at different stages of life.

How to apply for CAF benefits

Applications for CAF benefits are usually made online through the official CAF website or App. Creating an account allows you to submit applications, upload documents, and track the progress of your claims.

In most cases, benefits are not paid automatically. You must actively apply and provide the requested information for your situation.

Contact your local town hall or préfecture on guidance for your area

Documents CAF usually asks for

The documents required by CAF depend on the benefit you are applying for, but commonly include proof of identity, proof of residency in France, income information, and details about your household.

CAF may request additional documents after your application is submitted. This is common and does not necessarily mean there is a problem with your claim.

How long CAF takes to process applications

Processing times for CAF applications vary and can be longer than people expect. It is normal for applications to take several weeks or more, particularly during busy periods.

Payments are usually not backdated unless specifically stated, so delays can affect when benefits start being paid.

Common issues and delays with CAF

Delays and requests for additional information are common when dealing with CAF. Files are often paused while documents are reviewed, or if information provided does not fully match CAF’s records.

Changes in family situation, income, or housing can also trigger reviews that temporarily stop payments. While frustrating, these pauses are usually administrative rather than punitive.

Reporting changes to CAF

It is important to report changes in your situation to CAF as soon as possible. This includes changes to income, employment, housing, family composition, or marital status.

Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which CAF may later ask to be repaid. Updates can usually be made through your online CAF account.

What to do if you are unsure or stuck

If you are unsure about your situation or the status of your application, checking your online CAF account is usually the best first step. Messages and document requests are often posted there.

If needed, you may also be able to contact CAF by phone or arrange an appointment at a local office, though response times can vary.