Requesting the PAJE Basic Allowance

The basic allowance for young child care (PAJE) is a monthly benefit paid until the child turns 3, subject to income conditions, to help cover childcare costs. It's usually paid automatically after declaring the birth.

This page explains when a direct letter is needed, what information to provide, and offers a ready-to-use letter template, plus a tool to automatically generate your personalized letter.

When should you write this letter?

• You haven't received this allowance despite meeting the conditions;
• You want to confirm your eligibility for this benefit;
• You noticed an unjustified payment interruption;
• You need to clarify your specific situation;
• You noticed an error in the amount paid.

In all these cases, a written letter remains a reliable way to resolve your situation.

Required information to include

• Your first and last name and beneficiary number;
• The birth date of the child concerned;
• Your approximate household income;
• Your current family situation;
• The list of documents attached (birth certificate, tax notice).

The more accurate this information is, the faster your request will be processed.

Official letter template

Important note: the letter sent to CAF must be written in French, as it is a French administration. Below is a template you can use as a basis.

[First name LAST NAME]
[Full address]
[Beneficiary number]

CAF of [Department]
[CAF address]

Written in [City], on [Date]

Subject: PAJE basic allowance application

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am requesting payment of the basic allowance for my child born on [date].

[...]

→ The complete letter, tailored precisely to your situation and ready to send, is generated automatically in 3 minutes using the tool above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Until what age is this allowance paid?

Until the child turns 3, subject to specified income conditions.

Is it income-conditioned?

Yes, household income must not exceed a specified threshold, reviewed annually.

Is it paid automatically after birth?

Often yes, after declaring the pregnancy and birth, without a separate application.

What if I have twins?

An allowance may be paid for each child according to rules applied to multiple births.

Can it be combined with other benefits?

Yes, it can be combined with most other family allowances.