Becoming self-employed in France
In France, to become a koapper, you need self-employed status. We advise you to opt for micro-entrepreneur status, as it’s quick and easy to set up.
Step 1: Create your self-employed status
1. Gather the necessary information
Before registering, please have these documents and information ready:
- Your proof of identity (national identity card or passport).
- Your full postal address.
- Your social security number.
- A description of your activity: note that you will be providing “Services Ă la personne”.
- Your bank details (RIB) to manage your payments.
2. Register online
- Visit the official portal:
👉 https://www.autoentrepreneur.urssaf.fr - Click on “CrĂ©er mon auto-enterprise” and fill in the online form.
- Choose your activity: select “Service Ă la personne”.
- Declare your business address: this is often the same as your home address if you work from home.
- Indicate your estimated income: don’t worry, this is just an estimate to get you started.
Need help?
To save time, you can use an online service or ask for help from a partner such as LegalStart or Portail Auto-Entrepreneur. They can take care of the paperwork for you!
3. Wait for confirmation
Once you have submitted your application :
- You will receive a SIRET number (your unique professional identifier).
- You will automatically be entered in the National Business Register (RNE).
- You can start invoicing your services as soon as you receive your SIRET!
đź•’Don’t panic! The average time taken to receive the SIRET after submitting your file online is 15 days.
4. Take out suitable insurance (optional but recommended)
As a self-employed person, it’s important to be well protected.
- Professional Civil Liability (RC Pro): Highly recommended, this covers any damage caused to your customers or their property.
- Car insurance for business use: If you use your vehicle for business-related travel, make sure your policy covers it.
. Professional liability insurance is affordable (from €10/month). Take the time to compare offers to find the one that’s right for you.
Step 2: Enable your customers to benefit from the tax credit
The “Personal Services” tax credit allows your customers to reclaim 50% of the sums spent on your services. It’s a much-appreciated benefit, but for your customers to benefit from it, you need to follow a few simple steps.
1. Understand the tax credit
The tax credit applies to personal services, such as help with daily chores, home maintenance or combating isolation.
👉 Your customers will be able to reclaim half of what they pay for your services, in the form of a tax credit (or reduction if not taxable).
2. Make a “Personal Services” declaration (strongly recommended)
To make your services eligible for the tax credit, you need to declare your activity to the relevant authorities. Here’s how:
- Connect to the official human services website 👉 https://www.servicesalapersonne.gouv.fr.
- Fill in the form to declare your activity.
- If necessary, contact your DREETS (Regional Department) for further details.
3. Gather the necessary documents
To do this, you will need :
- Your SIRET number (obtained as an auto-entrepreneur).
- Proof of residence or business address.
- A description of the services offered: mention eligible services such as non-medical home help.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I have to become self-employed to use koappy?
Can I become a koapper if I am already an employee or student?
Yes, you can become a koapper, but certain verifications are necessary depending on your status:
1. Classic employee
- You can also be self-employed if your contract does not contain an exclusivity clause.
- As koapper activity does not compete with conventional employment, it is generally authorized.
2. Civil servant
- If you are a full-time civil servant, you must request prior authorization from your administration.
- Part-time is easier, but check with your employer.
3. Intermittent entertainer
- Combining work and self-employment is often complicated, as it can affect your entitlement to unemployment benefit. Check with PĂ´le Emploi Spectacle or a specialized advisor.
4. Student
- You can become a koapper if you’re a student, as long as you’re at least 18 (or 16 with parental consent).
- This poses no legal problems, but remember to organize your time carefully so that you can reconcile your studies with your work.
Can I become a koapper if I'm already retired?
Do I have to pay social security contributions even if I don't earn any money?
Do I have to register for VAT? If so, how?
What are the costs and taxes associated with auto-entrepreneur status?
Which services are eligible for the tax credit?
Do I have to renew my declaration?
Is it compulsory to make the declaration for the tax credit to be on koappy?
No, you don’t have to make a declaration for the “Personal Services” tax credit to use koappy. However, it is highly recommended, as it offers significant advantages:
- Increased attractiveness: Your customers can benefit from a 50% tax credit on the services you offer, making your services more attractive.
- Legal compliance: This declaration allows you to operate legally in the personal services sector.
In short, although not mandatory, making this declaration can greatly facilitate the development of your business on koappy.