8. Business Banking, Accounting & Insurance in France

1. 8.1. Banking
2. 8.2. Accounting
3. 8.3. Insurance

8.1. Business Banking in France

If you set up a separate company structure to run the business, you will be required to open a bank account in the name of business.

Indeed, even if you do not set up a separate company you are expected by the tax authorities and the banks to have a compte professionelle for your business.

Banks make a charge of at least €25 per quarter for all business accounts.

If you find this charge a burden then, as a start up, you may be able to get the local manager to temporarily waive the charge.

All bills in excess of €3000 (€1100 for those in the retail trade) must be settled by cheque, credit card or virement. Salary payments can be made in cash up to €1500 per month. Deposit payments in cash are subject to an upper limit of €460.

Informaton on loan finance from banks is included on our pages on Financial Assistance.

The Fédération Bancaire Française has introduced a code of conduct to govern the relationship between small business's and banks. The code is available in English, which you can read by visiting Banking Code of Conduct