France's Gift and Donation Tax Exemptions Detailed

French tax law distinguishes between a "present d'usage" (gift for a specific occasion) and a donation, but the code does not set a precise monetary limit. Courts often use a reference point of 2‑2.5% of the donor’s net assets to decide if a transfer is disproportionate and may be re‑qualified as a taxable donation.

Each parent may give €100,000 to each child every 15 years tax‑free. An additional "don familial" allows a further €31,865 per child under the same interval, provided the donor is under 80 years old and the recipient is an adult. Together, a parent can transfer up to €131,865 to a child, and a couple up to €263,730, without inheritance tax. Separate allowances exist for spouses (€80,000), grandparents to grandchildren (€31,865), siblings (€15,000) and other relatives, all renewable every 15 years.

Inheritance tax rates start at 5% and can rise to 45% for large estates. Combining the 15‑year donation rule with life‑insurance designations (up to €152,500 per beneficiary before age 70) and usufruct reservations can further reduce total tax liability, often requiring a notarial deed for property transfers.