top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Bid to limit bank fees applied to accounts after a death in France

French fees reported to be three times higher than Spain

Approval to the fee cuts has been given by the French Senate Pic: chainarong06 / Shutterstock

Moves to limit fees levied by banks to deal with the accounts of someone who has died have been approved by the Senate. 

An amendment to a bill on protection of bank clients removes fees on small estates of less than €5,000 and sets a ceiling of 1% of an estate’s value. 

It was proposed by centrist senator Hervé Maurey, who now hopes to see the bill, including the amendment, go before MPs in June. 

He has said, however, that he is worried about “the powerful banking lobby and their direct access to the office of the Economy Minister”. 

In a 2021 report, consumer group UFC-Que Choisir said average frais de succession were €233 but they were four times as high in certain banks compared to others. 

It added that French fees were three times as much as those in Spain and twice those in Belgium and Italy, whereas such fees are banned in Germany.

Related articles

What happens to my French estate if I do not make any plans?

If I follow UK inheritance rules, will my friend still pay French tax?

Can I donate my body to science once I die in France?

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France