As the end of the year approaches, the New Year period begins. The opportunity to thank those who provide service on a daily basis: postmen, garbage collectors, firefighters, but also childminders, cleaning ladies or nanny. How much to plan for? This sum must be declared for taxes?
In December, it is not uncommon to see the postman, garbage collectors or firefighters going from house to house with calendars or greeting cards to sell, in exchange for a small sum. Everyone is free to give what they want. These donations correspond to end of year giftsa custom deeply rooted in France. And it is not limited to public officials: it is also common to pay a bonus to your housekeeper, your childminder, your nanny, your guardian or even your gardener.
How much to donate at the end of the year?
There is no rule or law fixing the amount of gifts. The very fact of paying a small sum of money to an employee is not at all an obligation. Everyone is free to do so, or not to do so, and to set the amount as they wish. However, it is important to remember that New Year gifts can be an opportunity to thank someone for the quality of their work. A real plus for professions (housekeeper, home help, concierge, etc.) that are often little considered and whose salary is rarely very high. You obviously have to do it within your own means, without putting yourself in difficulty. We generally give 10 euros, but we can go up to 30 euros, 50 euros, or even much more. On the other hand, as France Emploi Domicile points out, beyond 1500 euros, it is obligatory to pay the amount by check or transfer. For smaller amounts, an envelope with cash is perfect.
When to pay the gifts?
Again, there are no rules. Some employers like to give this bonus before Christmas while others prefer to wait until the beginning of the year. It’s a bit like wishing a happy new year, it is estimated that this makes sense until around January 15. Of course, it is entirely possible to pay the gifts a little later if you wish.
Should we declare New Year gifts for taxes?
When it is a large amount, the amount paid for the gifts must normally be declared as a “bonus” on cesu.urssaf.fr, the site on which the employee’s hours are recorded each month. This is the case for people you employ yourself, and not for firefighters or postmen for example. But in reality, small amounts are not declared for taxes.
