
Essential Guide: Taxes and Contributions for Self-Employed in France
Self-employed individuals in France must manage several tax obligations and social contributions. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what you need to know:
Social Security Contributions
- Sales and related activities: 12.8% of revenue
- Trade, commercial, and professional services: 22% of revenue
- Declarations must be made through the Urssaf website
- First quarter revenue declaration required after 90 days of business
- Payment options: monthly or quarterly via direct debit, credit card, or SEPA transfer

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Business Property Tax (CFE)
Revenue-based tax brackets:
- Up to €10,000: €223 to €531
- €10,001 to €32,600: €223 to €1,061
- €32,601 to €100,000: €223 to €2,229
Contribution for Vocational Training (CFP)
Percentage of revenue based on activity type:
- Sales activities: 0.1%
- Private and commercial services: 0.2%
- Trade sector: 0.3%
Chamber of Commerce Duties
Sector-specific rates:
- Sales activities: 0.015% to CCI
- Service providers: 0.044% to CCI
- Trade services: 0.48% to CMA
- Self-employed tradespeople (buy/sell): 0.22% to CMA

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Tax Filing Requirements
The French tax system offers withholding tax as the default method:
- Annual income declaration required
- Professional expense deductions vary by activity type
- Online declaration through official tax portal

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Woman filing French tax return online

Person writing in leather journal

Woman filing French tax return online
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