English language guide to l'auto-entrepreneur system

A KEY reform of the French business system is the launch of the l'auto-entrepreneur system that should make it easier for individuals to start up a service, without facing massive costs.

In the past small businesses have found it difficult to pay social charges and taxes as figures have been based on government projections, leaving many with bills before they have earned a centime.

But the l'auto-entrepreneur system will allow new start-ups the opportunity to pay tax and social charges each month based upon their turnover and so alleviate some of the initial costs.

Naturally such changes are complex and whilst their is an official l'auto-entrepreneur website I'm sure even competent readers of French might find deciphering the guides a challenge.

But translator Alison Morton, who runs PBSS Translations, has experience of working in both French and German and so got to work on the official guide produced by pme.gouv.fr.

Alison was keen to stress that it is just her translation and that people need to make their own enquires and register through the official channels.

On December 18 the minister responsible for the l'auto-entrepreneur system, Hervé Novelli, will provide more information and any updates as the scheme is set to come into operation on January 1, 2009.

And Alison has assured people that she will 'of course read about this with interest'.

Update (12/05/09): English language guide to l'auto entrepreneur updated

Comments

[Pete, FrogBlogger]

Very useful post indeed, thanks for that. Here's hoping it will mean real change to a system that has been ludicrously restrictive and handicapping for small businesses for as long as I can remember...

[Craig McGinty]

Hi Pete, the changes could prove very helpful to people who want to start a small business.
All the best, Craig

[Pete, FrogBlogger]

Yes indeed, I've been living in France on and off for 20+ years, and have previously been self-employed there as an interpreter/translator - not much fun bureaucracy-wise. I'm transforming my place there (Vaucluse) into gites/B&B (I see you post to Lay My Hat, a very useful forum I have just discovered). Certainly not the best time to set up a holiday business, but needs must! Back from Thailand on the 18th. Can't say I'm looking forward to it greatly, especially with my main income being £-based!

[JENNIFER]

I live in the UK but have a 2nd home in France. I love doing vide greniers and have registered as an auto entrepreneur.

I'm not adverse to paying tax on any proceeds but as I am a retired UK resident with not enough income to pay UK tax, do I still have to pay tax to the French system. If not, does anyone know what I should do?

Thank for any assistance.

[Liz Marsh]

Hi
As an auto-entrepreneur who is about to declare the first financial statement, can anyone help with a basic outline of what is needed to be recorded. Just the headings would be great.