Who receives family benefits and allowances in a couple?

Verified 16 November 2023 - Legal and Administrative Information Directorate (Prime Minister)

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Parents living in the same household

As parents, you live in the same household and together assume responsibility for effective and permanent load on your child.

You must designate, by mutual agreement, the parent who is entitled to family benefits. This parent is called the beneficiary.

This choice (said right of option) can be done at any time.

You can no longer change the designation of the beneficiary parent for 1 year, unless there is a change in circumstances (e.g. divorce).

In case of separation, you must contact the Caf: titleContent . The process varies depending on whether you are the recipient or not.

If you do not designate a beneficiary, the family benefits are paid to the mother.

Separated Parents

General case

In the event of separation, benefits are paid to the parent in which the child lives. This parent is called the beneficiary.

If you are married, this separation translates into:

If you are in a cohabitation, this separation results in a cessation of living together.

Alternate custody

Of special rules shall apply in the case of alternate custody.

These rules vary depending on who you are agree or disagree on the designation of the beneficiary or beneficiaries.

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