New French Law to Change Taxes for Unmarried Couples

France Implements New Tax Law for Unmarried Couples France is set to implement a new law impacting unmarried couples starting January 1st, 2026. The legislation will automatically classify couples cohabiting for over two years as a single tax unit. This means their incomes will be combined for tax purposes, potentially affecting their tax liability and eligibility for certain social benefits. The government claims this reform aims to align taxation with the reality of modern living situations. While the government views this as a step toward fairer taxation, some couples express concern about the potential financial consequences. "This new law could significantly impact our finances," says one affected couple. "We were not prepared for this change and it feels unfair." The government plans to use data from various sources, such as CAF (family allowance fund) and social security records, to identify couples who fall under the new law. While the intention is to improve tax fairness, the lack of prior notice and the potential for reduced benefits have caused anxiety among many unmarried couples in France. The long-term effects of this legislation remain to be seen, but the debate is sure to continue. The government's justification focuses on aligning tax policies with the reality of modern family structures. However, concerns about the potential financial burden on couples have prompted discussions about the fairness and transparency of the new law. The coming months will be crucial in observing the impact of this significant policy change on French society.