PUMA tax 2026: calculation, thresholds and relief
Who pays the French PUMA contribution in 2026, what thresholds matter and why dividend-heavy executives must model it in advance.
Expert note: This article was written by our chartered accountancy firm. Information is current as of 2026. For a personalised review of your situation, contact us.
PUMA tax 2026: calculation, thresholds and relief
Updated March 2026 - The so-called PUMA tax is the French subsidized health contribution. It mainly affects people with low earned income but significant investment or property income.
2026 practical thresholds
The 2026 annual social security ceiling is EUR 48,060, which means the key operating markers are:
- ▸20% of PASS: EUR 9,612
- ▸50% of PASS: EUR 24,030
The legal contribution rate used in the formula is 6.5%.
Why directors should care
Executives who pay themselves little salary and rely on dividends should always review the PUMA impact together with flat tax 2026, dividends vs salary and SASU social charges.
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Conclusion
The safest approach is to model the contribution before the dividend decision, not after the assessment arrives.
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Article written by Samuel HAYOT
Chartered Accountant, registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants.
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