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In brief
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Duration: Request / update on caf.fr — 20 at 40 min; decision — 4 at 8 weeks
Cost: Free
Possible online

Who this guide is for

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  • Couples (married, pacified or in a common-law relationship) renting together
  • Roommates wishing to receive the APL
  • Those whose family composition changes (separation, birth)

To be prepared in advance

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  • The lease, common or individual
  • SS numbers of both partners / roommates
  • All members' income over the past year

Step-by-step procedure

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  1. 1Determine the structure of the lease. One lease for all = one dwelling, the APL is calculated on the household's cumulative income. Several individual leases = each occupant is a full tenant with his/her own right to the APL.
  2. 2As a couple: the CAF adds up the income of both partners. I-I-I APL is paid for the home (not for each), even if only one partner is on the lease. Both must be reported to the CAF as recipients.
  3. 3In individual lease co-location (each signs its own contract with the lessor): each files its own application for the APL and its revenues are taken in isolation. Often more advantageous.
  4. 4In single-lease co-location (all on the same contract): the CAF treats co-location as a single dwelling, and the APL is distributed among roommates pro rata — to be formalized via the CAF.
  5. 5Specify exactly all the occupants in the CAF application: a forgotten partner or roommate leads to a recalculation and debt (undue). In case of change (separation, new roommate), inform the CAF under 30 days.
  6. 6A birth, a Pacs or a marriage changes the category: other helpers open (family allowances, work bonus) and the APL is recalculated. Report the event immediately.
  7. 7Check on caf.fr via the simulator which configuration is the most favorable: sometimes switching from a single lease to individual leases increases the APL for all.

Common mistakes

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  • Believing that each couple perceives their own APL. No — one for the home.
  • Applying for the APL only for one single-lease roommate — others lose their rights.
  • Do not report to the CAF any change in composition (separation, Pacs) — undue and refund.
  • Ignoring that the individual rental lease gives a separate right to each — resulting in a loss of money.
  • Hide partner's income — then recalculation and debt.

Official sources

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Show sources in this section

Useful links

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APL for studentsColocation and solidarityCAF and family allowances

Important remark

The amounts of APL depend on composition and income. This information is indicative — only the CAF simulator gives the exact calculation.

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