French real expenses tax calculator

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Why use a French real expenses tax calculator?

In France, employees automatically benefit from a 10% standard deduction on employment income to cover common professional expenses. But if your actual work-related expenses are higher, you may choose to declare real expenses instead.

This calculator helps you estimate whether the real expenses option may be worth it. It takes into account your actual working days, your home-to-work commute, mileage, tolls, parking costs and the comparison with the automatic 10% deduction.

What the calculator estimates

Real expenses or 10% deduction: how to choose?

The basic comparison is simple: compare your real expenses with the amount of the 10% standard deduction. If your real expenses are higher, choosing real expenses may be useful. Otherwise, the automatic deduction is usually better.

However, choosing real expenses may also require you to add back certain allowances or reimbursements paid by your employer. This is why the result should be used as decision support, not as an automatic tax filing.

How are mileage expenses calculated?

For home-to-work commutes, the calculation mainly depends on three elements: the number of commute days, the round-trip distance and the type of vehicle used. Telework days should not be counted as commute days.

If your home is located more than 40 km from your workplace, the deduction is generally limited to the first 40 km, unless you can justify the distance by specific circumstances related to your job, family or personal situation.

What the French mileage scale already includes

When you use the official French mileage scale, it already covers several vehicle-related costs: depreciation, maintenance, repairs, tyres, fuel and insurance. These costs should not be added a second time.

However, some costs may be added separately if justified, including tolls, garage costs or parking costs related to your professional activity.

Meal expenses: check the rules carefully

Meal expenses may also be included in real expenses when your work requires you to eat away from home. The calculation depends on your situation: whether a company canteen is available, whether you have receipts, meal vouchers, employer contributions and other details.

To avoid mistakes, use this calculator for travel-related expenses, then read the associated guide to understand how to handle meals, employer reimbursements and supporting documents.

Which supporting documents should you keep?

If the French tax authority asks for details, you must be able to explain and justify the expenses declared: working days, home-to-work distance, vehicle used, tolls, parking, meals or other professional costs.

• work schedule or attendance calendar;
• employer certificate if useful;
• vehicle registration document or proof of vehicle use;
• toll tickets and parking invoices;
• meal receipts or professional expense documents;
• explanatory note if the home-to-work distance exceeds 40 km.

Who is this tool for?

This calculator is useful if you are an employee, apprentice, job seeker or in a situation where you need to estimate professional expenses related to your activity in France. It is especially relevant if you drive many kilometers, telework part of the week, pay tolls or hesitate between real expenses and the 10% deduction.

For a sensitive tax return or a complex situation, always check the official rules or seek professional advice.