Family Housing Allowance (ALF) in 2025: Complete Guide

While APL (Aide Personnalisée au Logement) is the most well-known housing allowance, it doesn’t apply to every situation. Depending on your family status, you may be eligible for another benefit from CAF: the Family Housing Allowance (ALF). Learn more about the eligibility conditions for ALF in 2025, how it’s calculated, and how to apply.

What is ALF?

The Family Housing Allowance (ALF) is a financial aid granted by the CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) or MSA, depending on your system, to help reduce your rent or mortgage payments if you are a homeowner. Unlike APL or ALS, it is awarded based on your family situation.

ALF eligibility conditions in 2025

1. Conditions related to the housing

• First, the dwelling must be your main residence, occupied at least 8 months per year.
• You must be a tenant, co-tenant, registered subtenant, or a resident in a facility (student residence, nursing home, senior housing, etc.).

2. Conditions related to your family situation

You may qualify for ALF if you are in one of the following situations:

• You receive family benefits or the Disabled Child Education Allowance (AEEH)
• You have a dependent child under 21 but don’t receive other benefits
• You are a young couple (married for less than 5 years, both under 40 years old)
• You are pregnant, without dependents, from the 4th month of pregnancy
• You house a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent over 65 with limited income
• You are responsible for an elderly relative (or your partner’s) with at least 80% disability or unable to work due to a disability

3. Conditions related to your income

• Your income must not exceed a specific threshold, based on your household composition and the location of the housing
• You must not be tax-dependent on a household subject to the Real Estate Wealth Tax (IFI)

How is the ALF amount calculated?

The amount of your ALF depends on several factors:

• The size of your household and number of dependents
• Your income from the year N-2 (or more recent depending on your case)
• The income of your partner or others living with you
• The amount of your rent or mortgage payments
• The value of your property assets (considered if above €30,000)

Since 2023, the amount is reviewed every 3 months to better reflect your current situation.

You can make a personalized simulation directly on the CAF website: click here.

Conclusion: Should you apply for ALF in 2025?

If you are a tenant or homeowner and your family situation meets the criteria, ALF can help reduce your housing expenses. It remains a valuable form of support, provided you meet the requirements related to your income and housing.

Each year, thousands of households apply for the Family Housing Allowance to reduce their expenses. By reviewing your family situation and income, CAF can offer support tailored to your needs. Don’t miss out—plan ahead and prepare your application today.

Want to apply for APL? Read our article!

Looking to rent a home? Check out our apartments on Lodgis.com!