Winter time, fuel, property tax... what’s changing on October 1, 2026

Published by Margot de Sortiraparis, Caroline de Sortiraparis · Photos by Cécile de Sortiraparis · Updated on September 24, 2026 at 03:39 p.m.
What does October 2026 have in store? Here’s a rundown of what’s changing in health, housing, daylight saving time, and social benefits in France.

We’re already into October! While this month is eagerly anticipated by many and dreaded by others, it also brings a handful of changes and new developments, notably higher medical deductibles and flat-rate copayments, aid measures in response to rising fuel prices, and the switch to winter time... Here's what to expect starting October 1, 2026.

The annual cap on medical deductibles and flat-rate co-payments increases

From now on they will be 140 euros instead of 100 euros previously, with the amount then equating to 1 euro per box of medications, 1 euro per paramedical act, and 4 euros per medical transport. A daily cap has also been established, so you will not be able to deduct more than 4 euros per day for paramedical acts and 8 euros per day for medical transport for people who are not exempt from the medical franchise and the fixed participation.

Reusable sanitary products reimbursed for people under 26

To address menstrual poverty, people under 26 and beneficiaries of the Complémentaire santé solidaire will be reimbursed at 55-65% (for those under 26) and 100% (for CSS beneficiaries) for reusable protections such as menstrual cups and period underwear, with a limit of two products per year.

Sick leave: shorter compensation period

Regarding employees on long-term sick leave, the maximum compensation will now be one year, starting October 15, 2026, down from three years previously. To qualify for a new one-year leave for the same illness, the employee must have returned to work for at least one year. Those already off work for more than six months before October 15, 2026 will, however, still be eligible for compensation for up to three years.

Property tax: payment deadlines

The deadlines to pay your property tax are as follows: October 20 at midnight for online payments, or October 15 at midnight if you’re paying by another method (check, bank transfer, or cash).

Impound fees are changing

Starting October 1, 2026, in Paris, the maximum impound fees for private cars nationwide will be €7.60 for immobilization on-site, €15.20 for moving a vehicle before it is impounded, €150 for vehicle removal, €29 for daily custody, and €100 for putting it up for sale.

Fuel: aid for workers dubbed "long-haul drivers"

In response to higher fuel prices since the start of the conflict in the Middle East, the "grands rouleurs" aid remains in place at €100 per person. However, several conditions still apply: run the simulation on the government website to see if you are eligible.

Gas Prices on the Rise

Gas prices are set to jump 6.3% in October, following a rise of more than 5% in September. The energy regulator expects the annual gas bill to be about 10% higher in 2026 than in 2025.

Housing aid boosted

The APL will be adjusted on October 1, in line with the evolution of the Rent Reference Index (IRL) for the second quarter of the current year.

A new lease agreement template

From now on, new leases will include an automatic termination clause if rent, charges, or the security deposit are not paid. The termination can be triggered after a formal payment demand has remained unanswered for six weeks.

Clocks go back as winter time begins

Remember to turn your clocks back by one hour during the night from Saturday, October 24 to Sunday, October 25, 2026.

Middle and High School Scholarships

For the 2026-2027 school year, be sure to start the process for middle and high school scholarship applications by October 15, 2026. Eligibility is based on income.

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From October 1, 2026 to October 31, 2026

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Official website
    www.service-public.gouv.fr

    Comments