13.2 million taxpayers to receive tax refunds

Good news for nearly a third of the 41 million taxpayers. Having paid too much tax for their situation, 13.2 million will receive a partial refund, according to the Directorate General of Public Finances (DGFIP). On average, the lucky ones will receive €1,017. On the other hand, another third will receive the painful news: 13.1 million did not pay enough income tax , indexed to that of 2024, and owe money to the Treasury. Last year, only 9.8 million of them were subject to a catch-up. However, the amount they owe is lower than last year. According to the DGFIP, the average amount to be paid is €1,901 compared to €2,127 last year.

But why such variations between the tax return and the adjustments? Many adjustments are necessary due to changes in circumstances between the spring tax return date and the current situation—a divorce, marriage, or the departure of a child from the tax household are among the notable developments. Hiring a home helper can also reduce the amount owed to the taxman.

As for the tax increase for nearly 13 million taxpayers, it comes mainly from the increase in salaries, which was higher than inflation in 2024. In March, the Directorate for Research, Studies and Statistics (Dares) of the Ministry of Labor announced that inflation was 1.2% between December 2023 and December 2024, when salaries had increased by 2.8% over the same period. An increase in proportions that are far too significant compared to the revaluation of the scale.

These fluctuations will be regularized in several ways. Overpayments will be reimbursed by bank transfer, if the DGFIP has the bank details of the taxpayers concerned, or by check sent by post. Some reimbursements were already made on July 25, and another wave will take place on August 1. Those who owe money to the Treasury will have their bank accounts automatically debited starting September 25. Amounts under €300 will be paid in a single payment, while those above €300 will be spread over four installments, from the end of September to the end of December.