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French inheritance and foreign law wills: calls for change grow
2021 rules forcing notaires to offer compensation to children who ‘miss out’ on their French-law reserved portions are being examined by the European Commission
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France changes its deadline rules for burials and cremations
Longer time between issue of death certificate and service now allowed
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Is tax payable if gifting French house to children?
Antonia Ridley-Hughes of Ashtons Legal, answers a reader query
French inheritance law and wills: Leaving money to charity
Every other day, we share a reader question from our helpguide, Inheritance Law and Wills in France. Today's question: How do I leave money to charity?
![](https://image.connexionfrance.com/100649.webp?imageId=100649&width=960&height=646&format=jpg)
Question:
Can I leave money to charitable associations and foundations?
Answer:
Take care if giving to good causes because not all of them are able to receive a bequest (also bequests to some will be free of inheritance tax, while this will not be the case for others). Ones which may accept bequests include those recognised as ‘d’utilité publique’ (generally larger charities), as well as recognised associations cultuelles (religious bodies), charities helping those in need, or carrying out scientific or medical research.
If in doubt, check with any charities beforehand and to obtain clarification about how your gift could be used. Notaire Pierre Lemée said: “For example if you want to help animals, it may be best to leave it to a national charity, specifying that it should benefit a particular geographical area, rather than a small local charity which may not be suitable."
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Find out all the information you need to create a will in France and more with our Inheritance Law and Wills in France 2020 Help Guide
This 64-page Help Guide by The Connexion details all the information you need to know about inheritance law and wills in France. It looks at how to create a British will in France, explains succession laws, procedures on a death, creating a will as a couple, leaving funds to family and pets, and so much more. Click here to find out more.