To avoid having to pay taxes in 2026, last year’s income must not exceed a certain threshold set by the state, which depends on your tax situation. With or without children, as a couple or single, here is the salary not to exceed this year.
In France, less than half of households pay income tax. Out of 41.5 million tax households, only 19.6 million are taxable, according to the General Directorate of Public Finances (DGFiP). With incomes that are too low or simply non-existent, millions of people are escaping it. Also, to pay income tax, the amount of income received over the year as well as the number of tax shares are taken into account: a single taxpayer is not taxed in the same way as a couple with two children.
This year, these ceilings are increased by 0.9% in view of inflation. Thus, for low-income households, these thresholds are essential. Crossing them, even just a little, can lead to a loss of aid or the appearance of a tax that is difficult to bear. But then, as the 2026 tax filing campaign approaches, which generally begins in April, are you one of those who will not have taxes to pay?
To find out, you have to look at your net taxable income, which appears on your pay slip, and compare it with “the recovery thresholds”. This year, the tax entry threshold has been set at 11,600 euros per year. But in reality, the calculation is not so simple: it is possible to earn much more, while remaining exempt from paying. And this, thanks to three specific measures: the 10% reduction for professional expenses, the discount for households with the most modest resources, as well as the minimum of 61 euros below which the tax authorities do not require any payment.
Thus, a single person without children should not pay income tax if their monthly net salary has not exceeded 1,629 euros, or 17,594 euros for the year 2025. For a single parent with a child, this ceiling would increase to 2,165 euros net per month. A couple without children should have received up to 3,043 euros per month in 2025 to not be taxed this year, or around 1,521 euros each. With a child, the limit would rise to 3,579 euros net each month, or 1,789 euros each; then to 4,116 euros with two children, or around 2,058 euros per month per parent.
Remember that the nature of the income (salaries, pensions, allowances, etc.) as well as any deductions or tax credits (childcare costs, donations, energy work, etc.) also determine the calculation. Finally, in France, the tax is progressive: only people who exceed the thresholds, set by the finance law, pay income tax.
