August is here! While this much-loved month heralds the start of vacation for many, and the return to work for others, it also has a number of important changes in store for us. Throughout the year, measures impact our daily lives, whether from an economic, health, transport, social or environmental point of view.
Between price rises, new subsidies and restrictions, these changes can sometimes be hard to keep up with. That's why, every month, we bring you up to date on what's changing in Paris and the rest of France, as and when it's announced, so you know the latest rules. So, what can you expect this August? Here are the main changes to keep in mind.
As a result of the 2025 budget adopted in February, VAT on energy subscriptions (gas and electricity) will rise from 5.5% to 20% on August 1, 2025. In other words, an increase of almost 14% for all consumers! According to the government, this is mandatory in order to comply with European law, since two different rates cannot be applied to inseparable elements of the same good or service, since consumption is already subject to this VAT rate. This will make the bill even heavier...
After dropping from 3% to 2.4% on February 1, the Livret A passbook savings account will drop to 1.7% on August 1, halving interest in less than a year, due to its calculation rules. The fall in what is regarded as France's favorite investment is said to be due to falling inflation. The rate for the Livret Développement Durable et Solidaire is also aligned with that of the Livret A.
The rate reduction was to be 2.2%, but in the end it will be 2.7%, compared with 3.5% previously. Reserved for low-income households, this cut could have been more substantial, but the Ministry of the Economy says it has left this margin to"encourage everyone to save".
From August 19, 3 million low-income families will receive this allowance, which enables parents to cover the cost of school supplies for their children aged 6 and 18.
Those who don't want a Linky meter in their home will now have to pay 6.48 euros plus VAT in extra charges every two months, with an additional reading charge of 4.14 euros if consumption has not been communicated to Enedis for over a year, unless this is due to a technical impossibility.
These changes could have an impact on various aspects of daily life in France and the Paris region. To stay informed and adapt to these new regulations, we advise you to consult the official government websites regularly.
Official website
www.service-public.fr
