4. Managing Your French Bank Account

1. 4.1. Cash Withdrawals
2. 4.2. Direct Debits and Standing Orders
3. 4.3. Statements
4. 4.4. Bank Overdrafts
5. 4.5. Closing/Transferring Account
6. 4.6. Seizure of Account

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4.2. Direct Debits and Standing Orders - Prélèvements/Virements

It is not difficult to arrange for utility and other regular bills in France to be paid by direct debit or standing order.

Generally speaking the bank charge for either is negligible or it is free of charge.

A standing order will be for the same amount and date each period, whilst the amount payable by way of a direct debit may vary each period.

If you wish to set up a direct debit or standing order, then you will naturally need to supply the beneficiary with your bank details.

This process is carried by means of a Relevé d'Identité Bancaire (RIB).

When you receive your cheque book it will contain several RIBs and you can ask for more from your bank as necessary.

The RIB contains the name of your bank and local branch, the bank code, sort code, account number, the RIB code and the name of account holder.

The RIB is frequently requested by employers, social security agencies, electricity and gas suppliers.

If you have not set up a direct debit or standing order it is not unusual for many public service bodies to send you a bill, that includes with it a detachable slip called a Titre Interbancaire de Paiement (TIP).

The TIP is simply a method of payment that avoids the need to send a cheque.

You merely sign the TIP and return it to the supplier and it is presented to your bank for payment.

If you have not previously given your bank details to the supplier then you will need to do so first time around by including with the TIP a RIB!

If you wish to terminate a direct debit or standing order then you need to write (by recorded delivery) to the organisation concerned.

If there is a dispute, and they refuse to stop, then you need to contact your bank to ask them to cease payment. Once again, you are normally required to do so by recorded delivery.

This process is called opposition au prélèvement.

If you need to unilaterally terminate the payment, without the consent of the payee, then there is likely to be a bank charge. Under European regulations mere suspension of the direct debit for a temporary period creates no charge.

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Next: Bank Statements

Back: Cash Withdrawals