First Application for Active Solidarity Income (RSA)

Active Solidarity Income (RSA) is a financial benefit guaranteeing a minimum level of resources for people with low or no income. The first application can be submitted online, but a written letter remains useful to clarify your specific situation or attach additional documents.

This page explains how to submit this application, 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?

• Your current income is below the specified minimum;
• You want to submit your first RSA application;
• You had difficulty registering online;
• You need to clarify your specific family or professional situation;
• You want to attach additional supporting documents.

In all these cases, a written letter remains a reliable way to support your file.

Required information to include

• Your first and last name and complete address;
• Your family situation (single, married, number of dependent children);
• Your current income and its sources if any;
• Your professional situation (unemployed, student, etc.);
• The list of documents attached (ID card, proof of residence, income statements).

The more complete your file is from the start, 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: First RSA application

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am requesting RSA benefits in view of my current situation: [description of situation].

[...]

→ 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

Who is eligible to apply for RSA?

Anyone aged 25 or over (or younger with dependent children) whose income is below the specified threshold.

How long does the application take to be accepted?

Usually a few weeks after receiving the complete file.

Does RSA require job searching?

Yes, beneficiaries are usually required to commit to a professional or social integration plan.

Can I combine RSA with part-time employment income?

Yes, within certain limits, with the amount recalculated based on additional income.

What if my application is rejected?

You can appeal the decision within two months of the notice.