Succession planning in France can highlight cultural differences Partner article: Robert Kent of Kentingtons explains why some expatriates are surprised by the French approach to inheritance
EU decision awaited soon on French forced heirship inheritance law The Commission has received multiple complaints from foreign residents in France left confused by a change in the rules
Does a UK will suffice for a French/English couple living in France? Partner article: We guide you through at the relevant succession regulation – and consider the implications of inheritance tax ‘Inheritance taxes are a minefield to be navigated in France and UK’ French inheritance law: Can I override en tontine clause on my house? Succession in France: How is your family affected?
Protecting your heirs from succession tax in France There are various issues to consider once you have moved to France – particularly if you have retired and plan to spend the rest of your days here. While financial planning for your new life will be high on the list, you also need to think about estate planning and protecting heirs from succession tax and France’s strict succession law.
Inheritance tax bill on property I am 35 and disabled. I live with my parents and my mum is also disabled. Our incomes are intertwined, the three of us supporting the three of us. But I am one of four children and my parents used the EU Regulation, allowing UK law, to make their will. I inherit everything and, depending on circumstance, will pay virtually zero inheritance tax. My will, however, is harder as I have neither husband or children. There is no cash involved, just a property. I will leave it (my parents fully support this) to my niece and nephew. However, inheritance tax is around 55%. Are there ways to cut the bill as they would have to sell a place they love to pay the tax? H.G.
How are you married? I’m not talking about church... When I ask people how they are married, they look at me perplexed. My favourite reply is still “in a church!”. When talking about marriage, in this instance, I mean the marriage regime.
Implications of acquiring French nationality on will Last week I received notification that my wife and I are now both dual nationals, not just British but newly French. We have been living in France for over 30 years. Some time ago we opted for our wills to be considered under the English system; can you say if acquiring French nationality means this option is no longer applicable – and should we make new wills? P.B.
Inheritance rules for second home in France Reader asks a question after a disagreement between French notaire and UK lawyer over a second home in France
Inheritance and succession rules in France Success can often mean choosing the simple option. Inheritance and succession rules can be overwhelming as there are so many of them in France but I look for what gives the simplest outcome for clients.
How French succession law could affect your family While there are many benefits to living in France, estate planning is not one of them. The laws are complex and, many feel, unfair. Having looked at succession tax last month, I now move onto succession law. This is rather alien for British expatriates and catches many people out.
Leaving money to a disabled person in France I have read you can leave up to €159,000 to a registered disabled person whatever their relationship to the deceased and this will be tax free. Do you know if this would apply to an autistic grandchild resident in the UK? She does receive some kind of disability benefit in her own right plus 1-1 assistance in school. Does France include neuro-developmental conditions in its definition of ‘disabled’ and what type of documentation would be needed? C.N.