You received an URSSAF enforcement order (contrainte)
In short
A contrainte is issued when a formal notice was not acted on. It is usually served by a judicial officer (commissaire de justice). Without opposition, it has the effect of a court judgment: URSSAF can then seize bank accounts or property.
Deadlines to check
- You have 15 days from notification or service to file an opposition.
- The opposition is filed with the registry of the competent court (social division of the judicial court where you live) or by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt; it must give reasons and include a copy of the contrainte. The contrainte itself must state this deadline and the court.
What to do
- Note the date of notification or service.
- If you disagree, file an opposition within 15 days, explaining your reasons and attaching a copy of the contrainte.
- If you accept the debt, contact URSSAF for a payment plan.
- Get help: a point-justice or a lawyer can guide you.
Watch out: 15 days is very short: act as soon as you receive it.
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.