Conventional breaks, sick leave, retirement... that's all going to change by September 2026

Starting on September 1st, several key changes will take effect in France, impacting households, businesses, and workers. Among these, the price of gas will rise by 5.6%, with the reference selling price increasing from 162.89 euros to 172.05 euros per megawatt-hour (MWh), including taxes. This increase follows higher prices on international markets, driven by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The adjustment affects approximately six million households that have opted for offers indexed to this average price, which represents around 60% of residential gas subscribers. Additionally, the electronic invoicing reform will begin, requiring large companies and medium-sized enterprises (ETIs) to issue invoices electronically starting September 1st. All businesses must be able to receive such invoices, while small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and micro-enterprises will have until September 1st, 2027, to be ready to issue them electronically through state-approved platforms. The new rules regarding sick leave will come into force on the same day. A first sick leave can last up to 31 days, and subsequent renewals will be capped at 62 days. However, longer absences may still be granted if the employee’s health condition justifies it. These changes apply specifically to doctors, dentists, and midwives. Meanwhile, the maximum duration of unemployment benefits for employees leaving their jobs under a negotiated termination agreement (rupture conventionnelle) will decrease. For those under 55 years old, the benefit period will be reduced to 15 months from the current 18 months, while those aged 55 and over will see it drop to 20.5 months from 22.5 months. In overseas territories outside Mayotte, the limits will be even lower, with 20 months for those under 55 and 30 months for those 55 and older. In addition to these labor-related changes, the payment deadline for property tax (taxe foncière) will shift. Property owners who are not on a monthly payment plan can view their tax notice from August 27th, while those on a monthly plan will receive theirs on September 19th. The final payment deadline is set for October 20th for online payments and October 15th for other methods. On the topic of retirement reforms, the suspension of the 2023 pension overhaul, originally scheduled to take effect earlier, will officially begin on September 1st, 2026. This means some generations will be eligible to retire earlier than previously planned, with the legal retirement age ranging between 62 years and 9 months and 63 years and 9 months for individuals born between 1964 and 1968. These changes reflect broader shifts in French policy, touching on economic regulation, social security, and administrative procedures. The government has introduced measures aimed at streamlining business operations, improving transparency in financial transactions, and adjusting social welfare systems to align with evolving economic conditions. While some of these reforms have faced criticism, particularly the electronic invoicing system, they are part of a larger effort to modernize administrative processes and reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies. As the new month begins, many citizens and businesses will need to adjust to these changes. Households should prepare for potential increases in energy costs, while employers and employees will need to familiarize themselves with updated regulations governing sick leave and unemployment benefits. Businesses, especially SMEs, will have time to adapt to the new invoicing requirements, though the transition may pose challenges. Overall, the start of September marks a pivotal moment in the implementation of several important policy changes affecting different sectors of French society.