Family Allowance Age Limit for Two Children: The Complete Guide

Are you wondering until what age you could still benefit from allowances for your children? The age limit for receiving these benefits remains essential for many families monitored by the CAF (Family Allowance Fund). Let's dive immediately into the conditions of obtaining, exceptions, and everything you need to know to optimize your rights and avoid unpleasant surprises.

General Conditions for Family Allowance Attribution

Basic Age Limit for Two Children

Family allowances are paid to families with at least two dependent children. The minimum age to receive these allowances is 20 years. To benefit, certain conditions must be met, notably having at least 2 dependent children under 20 years old and residing in France. This period is calculated until the month preceding the child's 20th birthday.

Certain specific situations may lead to the cessation of allowance payments before this age limit. This is notably the case if the child begins working and receives remuneration exceeding a certain threshold or if they cease to be considered dependent for other reasons. To examine the eligibility conditions for family allowances in detail, you can consult our dedicated article.

Exceptional Extension After 20 Years

Several situations allow for exceptions to this rule: the main cases where maintaining family allowances after 20 years is possible, which underscores the importance of mastering the conditions to continue benefiting from these family benefits:

• Continued Studies: If your child continues studies, particularly higher education, family allowances can continue to be paid until a certain age upon presentation of supporting documents.
• Apprenticeship: An apprenticeship contract can allow for the extension of allowance payments, but specific conditions related to remuneration and training must be verified.
• Limited Income: When the child works professionally, their income must not exceed a specific ceiling for family allowances to be maintained.
• Job Seeking: In case of active job searching after completing studies, it is possible under certain conditions to continue benefiting from family allowances for a determined time.
• Civic Service: Engagement in civic service can also allow for the maintenance of family allowances, as this status is considered a form of non-salaried activity.

The CAF remains your preferred contact for precise conditions and required documents. A declaration must be provided in each situation to benefit from family allowances for as long as possible.

Exact Date of Rights Cessation

Allowance payment typically stops at the end of the civil month during which the child reaches the age limit. Thus, the exact date of birth does not solely determine when payment ends.

Dependent Child Criteria

For children to be considered in calculating these social aids, certain criteria must be met. The primary criterion is residence in France. The habitual residence is defined as the place where the child actually and permanently lives.

Beyond residence in France, the concept of shared living is also important. Normally, the child must typically reside at the parents' domicile to be considered dependent. Paradoxically, certain situations require adjustments to this rule — such as a child boarding at school. This child remains considered dependent, even if not constantly living in the family home.

Adolescent Increase Effects

Families with at least two children can benefit from a family allowance increase when a child turns 14. This increase directly impacts the monthly received family allowance amount. The scale of family allowances, age-related increase, and fixed allocation is established by a decree published in 2015 according to beneficiaries' resources.

Administrative Procedures with CAF

It is crucial to report any change in family situation to CAF, as it can influence the amount of family allowances received. To report higher education departure, simply connect to your "My Account" space on caf.fr or via the mobile Caf - My Account app.

Specific Situations to Know

Child Studying Abroad

Specific rules apply when a child studies abroad. The CAF requires various supporting documents, including school attendance certificates and proof of foreign residence.

Apprenticeship Contract Termination

Terminating an apprenticeship contract can impact family allowance maintenance. A regularization period exists allowing parents time to adjust.

Child in Civic Service

The status of a child engaged in civic service is particular regarding family allowances. The CAF generally considers the civic service indemnity with specific calculation rules.

When the Child Turns 20

The child turning 20 can modify rights to family supplement and implies several administrative and financial adjustments:

• Cessation of family allowances
• Recalculation of family quotient
• Impact on housing assistance
• Potential changes to activity bonus
• Necessary situation declarations to CAF

Frequently Asked Questions

Which CAF Aids Are Available After 21?

After 21, CAF aids are generally limited. Family allowances typically cease for children over 20, with specific exceptions.

How Does CAF Determine a Dependent Child?

CAF considers a child dependent if you financially ensure their maintenance by covering essential needs and assume affective and educational responsibility.

How to Contest a CAF Decision?

Begin by filing a complaint via the "Contact my CAF" section on their website. If unresolved, you can contact the CAF mediator or, if necessary, pursue legal channels.

Is Family Support Allowance Paid Until 21?

Generally, Family Support Allowance (ASF) is paid until the child reaches 20, with exceptions for handicapped children.

The family allowance age will depend on your personal situation. While 20 years is the usual limit, certain derogatory cases exist. To continue benefiting from these crucial aids, verify your eligibility with CAF, as rules and mechanisms regularly evolve.

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