From November 2025, the fees charged by French banks on estates will finally be regulated, good news for families settling an inheritance.
The law of 13 May 2025, which will come into force on 13 November 2025, imposes a cap on fees and provides automatic exemptions for the simplest or most sensitive cases. Its aim is to end long-criticised banking practices and to bring greater transparency.
Until now, banks were free to set their own fees when transferring balances. These could vary significantly from one bank to another, and could be seen as questionable, since in reality, the process is pretty much automated.
Key changes:
- Fees are capped at 1% of the deceased’s total asset held with each bank
- Automatic exemptions (no fees):
- Simple succession – no real estate, credit or business account
- Modest estate – balances of €5,000 or less
- Estate of a minor (death of minors) – all fees waived for children under 18
These exemptions do not require any particular steps on the part of the heirs.
This new framework applies to the main banking products:
- Current accounts and cheques
- Regulated savings accounts (Livret A, LDDS, Livret Jeune, etc.)
- Savings accounts subject to specific taxation.
On the other hand, more complex investment products (PEA, SME innovation accounts, climate future savings plans) are exempt from this regulation.
Banks will have six months to comply with the new rules. An implementing statutory instrument (“décret”) will specify practical details. The DGCCRF and the ACPR (the banking watchdog) will be responsible for enforcing the new law. Administrative and financial penalties are provided for in the event of non-compliance.
This reform is a welcome development in a time of rising costs. Families should check that the banks concerned apply the new rules promptly once they take effect.
If you experience difficulties enforcing these rights, seek advice from Tees’ French law team.
