Brits with French income warned to get French tax returns in early

The French tax season is now upon us and British residents who have income to declare in France for the calendar year ending 31st December 2024 have now been notified of the deadlines to file a tax return.

Recipients of income received from a French source that is taxable in France are required to file an income tax return for the 2024 tax year (1st January – 31st December 2024). As it does every year, the DGFiP (Direction Générale des Finances Publiques) has divided France into three zones, each with a different deadline for filing tax returns:

• Departments 1 to 19 and for non-residents: Thursday 22 May 2025.
• Departments 20 to 54: Wednesday 28 May 2025.
• Departments 55 to 95 and the overseas departments: Thursday 5 June 2025.

Deborah Vaysse, a French Avocat specialising in French property with law firm Furley Page, said: “Many individuals mistakenly assume they only need to file a tax return in their country of residence. However, in France, you are required to declare your income from the very first euro earned even if no profit was made. Late payment of a tax declaration generally incurs a penalty fee, so it is vital to return all the relevant documentation in good time.

“It is also important to consider any sources of income that may be liable for tax very carefully. For tax purposes, French-sourced income includes, but is not limited to, real estate income, earnings from professional activities carried out in France (whether salaried or self-employed), capital gains, and pensions paid from a French pension fund.

“If you’re unsure whether you need to file a tax return this year, if you need assistance completing your return, or if you have any questions about French taxation in general, it is advisable to seek legal advice from a qualified Avocat.”

For more information about claiming a tax refund on French property or French income, contact Deborah Vaysse by emailing dav@furleypage.co.uk or calling 01227 763939.