You have just set up your company and receive the French return-to-work allowance (ARE)? As long as you do not pay yourself for your role as director, France Travail (the French employment agency) may ask you to prove it. That is the purpose of the non-remuneration certificate.
What is the certificate for?
It confirms that you are not paid for your duties as director. France Travail may request it when reviewing your rights or during your benefit period, to assess the amount of allowance that can be paid to you.
Who is concerned?
- Presidents of SAS and SASU companies
- Managers of SARL and EURL companies
- Directors of a recently registered company who receive ARE every month
If you chose to receive your rights as a lump sum (ARCE), the situation is different: ask your adviser.
The documents usually requested
- The decision setting the absence of remuneration: decision of the sole shareholder or of the shareholders, according to your articles of association.
- A sworn statement by the director, setting out this situation.
- Your articles of association, when they themselves set the director’s remuneration terms.
The documents expected may vary from one situation to another: your France Travail adviser tells you which ones apply to you.
Receive an example certificate to adapt
Receive, free of charge, an example sworn statement pre-filled with your details (name, company, date). It is in French, as France Travail expects, with an English translation for your understanding. It is displayed immediately and also sent to you by email. It is an example to adapt to your situation, which does not commit the firm as to its content: it is for you to review it, complete it and issue it under your own responsibility.
And when you start paying yourself?
Remuneration is put in place at the right time: turnover invoiced and collected, cash position, personal situation. When the day comes, you inform France Travail. We discuss it with you, so that you decide with full knowledge of the facts. See how we get you started after registration
Frequently asked questions
Does the certificate have to be issued by a chartered accountant?
As a rule, it is a sworn statement drawn up and signed by the director themselves. France Travail may however ask for other documents depending on your situation.
What is the difference between the certificate and the shareholders’ decision?
The decision of the sole shareholder or the shareholders sets the absence of remuneration for the director, under the conditions of your articles. The sworn statement reflects that situation and refers to it.
Does this certificate guarantee that my benefits continue?
No. Your rights are assessed by France Travail, according to your situation and the rules in force. The certificate is one of the documents you may be asked for.
What happens if I start paying myself?
You inform France Travail of this change. Remuneration can affect the amount of the allowance: better to anticipate it before putting it in place.
Is the reimbursement of business expenses remuneration?
The reimbursement of expenses incurred for the company, on supporting documents, is not remuneration. It must correspond to real, documented costs.
Can you support me after registration?
Yes, from your company’s registration: accounts, tax and VAT options, first deadlines and, when the time comes, setting up your remuneration. See our support after registration