Family benefits in France: CAF allowances for children in 2026

Child benefit (allocations familiales)

Paid from the second child under 20, without an application if you already receive CAF benefits; the CAF opens the right when you declare the second child. The amount depends on income. From 1 April 2026, the monthly amount for two children is €152.25 for household income up to €79,980 a year, €76.13 up to €106,604 and €38.07 above. For three children it is €347.32, €173.67 or €86.83 depending on income. Supplements apply when a child reaches a certain age, and a reduced flat-rate amount can be paid for a 20-year-old still living at home.

Birth grant and basic allowance (PAJE)

The prestation d'accueil du jeune enfant (PAJE) includes:

• the birth grant (prime à la naissance): €1,093.11 per child in 2026, paid before the end of the month following the sixth month of pregnancy, under income limits (for example €49,054 for a couple with two incomes and one child);
• the basic allowance (allocation de base): €198.16 per month at the full rate or €99.08 at the partial rate in 2026, until the month before the child's third birthday, under income limits. To receive them, you must have the first prenatal examination and declare the pregnancy before the end of the third month to your health insurance and the CAF.

Back-to-school allowance (allocation de rentrée scolaire, ARS)

Paid once a year for children aged 6 to 18 who are in school or training, under income limits (in 2026, €28,956 for one child, €35,638 for two). In 2026 it was €426.87 for ages 6–10, €450.41 for ages 11–14 and €466.02 for ages 15–18, paid from 18 August 2026. For children under 16 it is automatic if your tax returns are up to date; for 16–18-year-olds you confirm schooling online.

Childcare supplement (CMG)

If you employ a registered childminder or a nanny, the CMG covers part of the cost; it is available for children under 6, or under 12 for single parents. See the childcare guide for details.

Other benefits

Depending on your situation, other benefits may apply, such as the complément familial for larger families, the shared child-rearing benefit (PreParE) when a parent reduces or stops work, the family support allowance (ASF) and the disabled child's education allowance (AEEH). The CAF website lists the conditions for each.

To receive family benefits you must live in France, have at least one dependent child living in France, and have a valid right of residence:

• EU, EEA and Swiss citizens must have a right of residence, for example as a worker, a student or an economically inactive person with sufficient resources.
• Other nationals need a valid residence document, such as a residence card, a long-stay visa or a talent passport permit.
• Refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection show the document or receipt confirming their status.

For children born abroad, the CAF usually asks for proof that they entered France regularly, for example the OFII medical certificate issued in a family reunification procedure. This proof is not required if the applicant holds a document allowing work in some cases, so check the list for your situation on Service-Public.fr. Seconded (posted) workers follow special rules; contact the CLEISS.