You received your income tax notice (avis d'impôt)
In short
The tax notice summarises your income return and calculates the year's tax. It shows whether you still have a balance to pay or will get a refund. It is also a document you are often asked for (housing, CAF, bank).
Deadlines to check
- Balance of €300 or less: taken in one payment in September. More than €300: taken in 4 payments, September to December.
- To challenge or correct it: a claim (réclamation) is possible until 31 December of the 2nd year after collection started (2026 notice: until 31 December 2028).
- The tax office has 6 months to reply (can be extended by 3 months). After a refusal, you can go to court within 2 months.
What to do
- Check the income, family situation and dependants shown.
- If there is a mistake, file a claim from your personal account on impots.gouv.fr: secure messaging > « Nous contacter », or by signed letter to your tax office.
- If you dispute an amount, you can ask for a payment deferral (guarantees are required above €4,500).
- Keep the notice: it is used as proof.
Watch out: For questions, the tax helpline is 0809 401 401 (free service + call cost).
Sources and official links
Checked on 11 October 2026 against the official sources above. Rules can change: the deadlines written on your letter take priority.
General information, not legal advice. This guide explains a type of letter; it does not replace advice from a professional on your situation. Free help: France services, point-justice. Read the disclaimer.