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Managing money together: Benefits of a joint account in France
3 minutes read
Joint bank accounts simplify managing day to day expenses as well as making large purchases.
What is a joint bank account?
A joint bank account is where two people share the same account, giving both full access and control. This means each account holder can deposit and withdraw funds, make payments, and generally manage the account easily.
Joint accounts are also not only for married couples; those who are cohabiting or even housemates can open these types of accounts too. This makes it easier to share household bills, rent or mortgage payments or grocery expenses.
What’s more, each person has their own separate bank card, cheque book and online access.
In this article, we look at the benefits - including how to open a joint bank account in France without any fuss.
- Budgeting and paying the bills
Managing shared expenses is so much easier. If you own a property in France, a joint account streamlines the whole process of monthly or weekly budgeting, as well as paying the bills: electricity, gas, water, telecoms; not forgetting property and income taxes. It’s easier to track expenditure when managing your budget from one account and a good way of building up savings too. Don’t forget that with one account rather than two, you’ll save money on bank fees as well.
- Shared financial goals
Money is often a tricky subject between many couples, however by opening a joint bank account you can clearly establish shared financial goals, demonstrate transparency and ensure good communication. With one account, there is less need to discuss whether – and how - to transfer money from one account to another to pay a large bill. Also, if you are planning to buy a property, a joint account simplifies the process of pooling funds for the deposit and subsequent payments.
- Dealing with illness and unexpected situations
Ill health and sadly death are all part of life’s unexpected challenges, but a joint bank account in France can provide a measure of security and continuity during such difficult times.
Let’s give an example. Unlike individual accounts which are frozen when someone dies, with a joint account the other named person can continue to access the funds. It’s similarly important to know that it is not possible to change a sole account into the name of another person. Therefore, opening a joint account beforehand makes practical sense. In addition to health matters, certain legal situations (a dispute concerning debt or other examples) can create complications if a couple only have separate, individual bank accounts.
Business accounts
There are some exceptions. If you are a micro-entrepreneur, for example, you will need an individual account to manage all your transactions. The account will need to include the letters ‘EI’ together with your name.
How to open a joint bank account
Opening a joint bank account is straightforward. To open an account with CA Britline, please click here to check our eligibility requirements.
We’ll ask each applicant to provide two proofs of identity (e.g. Passport, Driving Licence); one proof of address (e.g. utility bill, insurance attestation) and one proof of tax status (e.g. P60, Government pension statement).
You can complete your application and upload your documents online. Our New Accounts team will normally review it within two working days. We will call you by phone to schedule an appointment if your application is complete, or email you if we need further information.
What if I am already a Britline customer?
To add a joint account holder on your Britline account:
- Contact Britline via secure message, phone, or email.
- Ask for and complete the joint account form with necessary documents.
- Submit the paperwork as directed.
- Wait for confirmation and setup of joint account access. Simple!
If you would like to read more about the benefits and considerations relating to joint accounts, please click here.
CA Britline - the bank that speaks your language
Our friendly and bicultural team of English-speaking advisors have been helping our customers with all their banking needs in France since 1999. Most of the team have lived both in the UK and France, so they can understand what life is like both sides of the Channel.
Feel reassured that you will always have access to real people who understand you and speak your language: Open your account today or feel free to request a call and we will answer all the questions you may have.
We look forward to hearing from you!
First published: 23rd June 2025
Image used is provided by Getty Images.