The CAF is asking me to repay money. What should I do?

It's important to give the CAF clear, accurate and honest information, and to keep it up to date. Your aid is calculated from what you declare, so a mistake or an undeclared change can lead to an overpayment (indu) that you will have to repay.

The CAF can claim back overpaid housing aid for 2 years. This period is longer (up to 5 years) in case of fraud or false declaration, and penalties can be added.

Please note: since 1 July 2026, many non-EU students are no longer eligible for housing aid. If you received payments after your rights ended, the CAF may ask you to repay them. See What are the conditions to receive CAF housing aid?

How to repay

You can repay online from your account on caf.fr, in the section about your debts: choose to repay all or part of the amount, check the summary, then pay. If you receive other CAF payments, the CAF may also deduct the amount from them. If you cannot repay in one go, contact your CAF to discuss a payment plan.

You disagree?

You can challenge a CAF decision within 2 months of being notified, by message from your CAF account, by post, in person or by phone. Explain why and attach the decision.