Impôt De Solidarité Sur La Fortune Isf

by | Dec 20, 2023

The Solidarity Tax on Wealth (ISF) has long been a pillar of the French tax system, concerning private wealth. Although replaced in 2018 by the Impôt sur la Fortune Immobilière (IFI), understanding the ISF remains essential to grasping the evolution of wealth taxation in France.

What is the ISF wealth tax?

The ISF was an annual tax levied on individuals whose net wealth exceeded a certain threshold. Its creation in 1982, then its abolition in 2017 to be transformed into the IFI, illustrates an ongoing tax debate in France: the fair contribution of the wealthiest to national solidarity. The aim was both to reduce inequalities and to contribute to the state budget.

History and development of the ISF

Creation and early years

The ISF was introduced under the presidency of François Mitterrand, and has undergone several reforms over the years. Its progressive nature meant that the tax rate increased with the value of the assets held.

Reforms leading up to its abolition

The most significant reforms included changes to entry thresholds and rates, as well as caps designed to limit the tax impact for the taxpayers concerned.

ISF bases and procedures

Taxable assets and exemptions

The ISF took into account the majority of assets, with a few exceptions and exemptions, such as certain professional or artistic assets. Impôt sur la Fortune Immobilière (IFI ) now focuses solely on real estate assets.

Calculating wealth tax

The ISF was calculated on the basis of the net value of assets on January 1 of the tax year. It included assets and deducted liabilities, subject to certain conditions.

Economic and critical implications

Impact on investment and tax avoidance

Criticized for its supposed impact on capital flight and investment, the ISF has often been at the heart of debates on its economic impact. This has led to the expatriation of some taxpayers to more favorable tax jurisdictions.

Social aspects and redistribution

The ISF was also defended as a tool for social rebalancing, enabling a fairer redistribution of wealth.

Post-ISF replacements and reforms

Property wealth tax (IFI)

In 2018, the ISF will give way to the IFI, focused exclusively on real estate wealth. This change has sparked a new debate on the taxation of capital in France. Capital taxation and its tax implications remain crucial issues.

Frequently asked questions

Here is a list of frequently asked questions about the ISF wealth tax:

What was the ISF threshold?

The ISF threshold was set at around 1.3 million euros of net wealth.

Were foreign residents subject to the ISF?

Yes, but only on their assets located in France. The question of tax residence is central to the taxation of non-residents.

Is the IFI different from the ISF?

Yes, the IFI focuses solely on real estate assets, whereas the ISF took into account all the taxpayer’s net assets.

The aim of this article is to provide a deeper understanding of the former Impôt De Solidarité Sur La Fortune (ISF) in France. For further details and context, please feel free to use the links below to enrich your tax research.

The complex paths of taxation are not a problem for us.
Gain peace of mind with experts, plan your strategy!