Thousands of Americans retire to France every year, drawn by its healthcare, lifestyle, and charm. But one of the first financial questions most people ask is: “Can I keep receiving my US Social Security while living in France?”
The answer is yes. Your benefits continue abroad, but there are a few key details to manage, from where your payments go, to how they’re taxed, to whether any French “social charges” might apply.
This articles walks you through everything you need to know to stay compliant, avoid surprises, and make sure your retirement income works smoothly from day one.
Table of Contents
Can you receive US Social Security payments in France?
Yes, the US Social Security Administration (SSA) can pay your benefits directly to either:
- Your US bank account, or
- A French bank account in euros, using international direct deposit.
If you want to switch to a French account, use Form SSA-1199-FR, available through the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) at the U.S. Embassy in Paris.
A few tips:
- Keep your mailing address, phone, and email current with the FBU so payments aren’t interrupted.
- If you move again within France, notify them immediately.
- Payments are converted to euros at the SSA’s exchange rate on the day of transfer.
Tip: Direct deposit to a French account saves on conversion fees and timing delays, especially useful if you rely on monthly payments for daily living expenses.
Who taxes your US Social Security: France or the US?
This is the area that confuses most new arrivals, but the answer is surprisingly simple thanks to the US–France Income Tax Treaty.
Under Article 18(1)(b) of the treaty:
US Social Security benefits paid to a resident of France are taxable only in the United States.
That means:
- You do not pay French income tax on your US Social Security.
- You still report it on your French tax return, but France grants a tax credit equal to the French tax that would have applied, resulting in a net French tax of zero.
Why still report it?
Because including the income keeps your file complete and helps France calculate your overall “taux effectif” (effective rate) for other income sources.
Example: If you receive $30,000 in Social Security and 10,000 € from French rentals, only the rental income is taxed in France, but your global income (including Social Security) determines your marginal rate.
Do French “Social Charges” apply to US Social Security?
They can. Even though US Social Security is exempt from French income tax, France may levy social charges, specifically CSG, CRDS, and CASA, on foreign pension income.
The exact rate depends on your household income and French healthcare affiliation.
Typical rates (2025)
| Charge | Standard Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CSG (Contribution Sociale Généralisée) | 8.3% | May be reduced or exempt for low-income households |
| CRDS (Contribution pour le Remboursement de la Dette Sociale) | 0.5% | Applies to most pensions |
| CASA (Contribution Additionnelle de Solidarité pour l’Autonomie) | 0.3% | Small surcharge for elderly-care funding |
Possible exemptions
- Low-income households may qualify for reduced or zero rates.
- S1 exemption: only applies if you’re insured under another EU/EEA/Swiss health system, not the US
- The US does not issue S1 forms, so most American retirees in France cannot use this route.
✅ In short: US Social Security isn’t taxed twice, but it can still face French social charges unless you meet French-specific exemption criteria.
Filing taxes in both countries
Even with the treaty in place, you usually still have to file returns in both France and the US
United States
- US citizens and green-card holders are taxed based on citizenship, not residence.
- You must file annually if your income exceeds IRS thresholds.
- You report worldwide income (including pensions), but can offset French tax via the Foreign Tax Credit (Form 1116) or Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (Form 2555), if applicable.
France
- As a French tax resident, you must declare your worldwide income, including your U.S. Social Security, even though it’s not taxed in France.
- Reporting ensures proper application of the treaty credit and correct French tax rates on other income.
Tip: Always file both returns. Missing one can cause issues with local authorities or the SSA. Using a tax preparer familiar with US–France cross-border filings can save time and stress.
Healthcare and benefits
Medicare
Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover healthcare in France. You cannot use your Medicare card for treatment here, even in emergencies.
What to do instead
- Register with PUMa (Protection Universelle Maladie), France’s national health system, once you’ve been resident for at least three months and meet the conditions.
- Consider top-up private insurance (mutuelle) for expenses not reimbursed by the public system.
- Alternatively, some expats maintain international health insurance for flexibility and bilingual service.
Tip: If you’ve been living in France long-term, joining the French healthcare system often gives you the best balance of coverage and cost.
WEP/GPO Repeal: Big news for retirees
If you worked in the US and received a public pension (federal, state, or local), your Social Security may previously have been reduced under the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) or Government Pension Offset (GPO).
As of January 5, 2025, the Social Security Fairness Act has repealed both WEP and GPO.
- The SSA is now recalculating benefits for affected retirees.
- If your payments were reduced in the past, you may receive a back payment once your case is reviewed.
If you think this applies to you, contact the Federal Benefits Unit in Paris or check your My Social Security account for updates.
Administration and where to get help
- Direct Deposit Form: SSA-1199-FR (International Direct Deposit to France)
- For questions or changes: Contact the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) at the US Embassy in Paris (do not mail originals unless instructed).
- Keep copies of all correspondence and confirmations.
Tip: The FBU can also help with SSA address updates, payment issues, and proof of life certifications.
FAQ: US Social Security while living in France
Can I receive my US Social Security in France?
Yes. The SSA can deposit benefits to either a French or U.S. bank account. Use Form SSA-1199-FR for euro direct deposit and keep your details current with the Federal Benefits Unit in Paris.
Who taxes my US Social Security: France or the US?
Under the US–France treaty, only the United States taxes these benefits. France requires you to report them but applies a full credit so no French income tax is due.
Do French social charges apply?
They might. CSG, CRDS, and CASA can apply unless you qualify for an exemption or reduced rate under French rules. The S1 exemption doesn’t apply to Americans because the US isn’t part of the EU social system.
Do I still file taxes in both countries?
Yes. US citizens must file annually regardless of residence. French residents must also declare worldwide income (with the treaty credit ensuring no double tax).
Does Medicare cover me in France?
No. Medicare doesn’t pay for care outside the US. Once settled in France, register with PUMa and consider a mutuelle or private plan.
Bottom line
For Americans living in France, handling US Social Security is manageable once you understand the basics:
- You can receive benefits directly in France, US or French account.
- Only the US taxes your Social Security, not France (treaty protection).
- Social charges may apply in France, depending on your situation.
- File in both countries each year to stay compliant.
- Set up French healthcare, Medicare doesn’t work here.
- WEP/GPO repealed: check if you’re due an increase or refund.
With the right preparation, your US Social Security can integrate smoothly into your life in France, giving you the peace of mind to enjoy your retirement the way it was meant to be.
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