Doing Business in France - RSM International

Some goods are either exempt or enjoy a deduction. This is the case for life insurance
proceeds (subject to certain restrictions), and for shares in companies or assets in
businesses carrying on a commercial, industrial, agricultural or liberal activity, 50%
of the value of which is exempt, provided the beneficiaries undertake to keep the
shares for at least 8 years and at least one of the beneficiaries runs the business.
Inheritance tax applies only on the net assets, i.e. after deduction of the liabilities of
the deceased existing at the time of death.
Where assets are owned jointly between husband and wife, inheritance tax will be
owed only in respect of the half share of the property which is passed on.
The persons liable for the tax are the heirs and legatees.
Each heir may enjoy a tax reduction which may amount to 156,974 €.
4.6.3.2 Gift tax
The rules for gift tax are to a large extent identical to those relating to inheritance tax.
4.7 Other taxes
4.7.1 Tax on company cars
A tax on company cars is due quarterly by companies owning or renting cars for their
employees or managers. The tax amount ranges between €750 and €4,500 per car
depending on the size of the car.
4.7.2 Payroll taxes
There are four taxes due by companies which hire a minimum number of employees.
4.7.2.1 Salary tax (taxe sur les salaires)
Salary tax is paid annually by companies with a VAT deduction ratio below 90% and
hiring at least one employee. The tax is not due if the annual salary does not exceed
a ceiling which is voted each year.
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