Setting up as an auto-entrepreneur and materntiy - timescales

Employed & Self Employed Auto/Micro-Entrepreneurs
1

Hi,

I’m trying to work out if it is worth my while to set up as an auto-entrepreneur (starting now from point zero!) if I would have to stop working to go on maternity leave in mid-October? And potentially not have any work for at least 6 months after that? I would have full time work until mid-October. I am not sure how long it would take to set up, and if there is a minimum number of hours worked/minimum contributions before I’d qualify for any of the benefits - particularly healthcare. Does anyone have any advice?

thanks

2

Hi, I might do that do this year and I am French if you need help. I didnt’ know neither what to do even if everyone says it’s easy!
I contacted my “Mairie” city hall and have an appointment with a lady that will explain me exactly.
If you want to chat with me about it please send an email and we might be able to help each other.
I live in Paris, and you?

3

Thanks Suzanne! Useful info and I’ll check out the link you provided. I think I have managed to sort out healthcare and maternity via my old NI contributions, just getting that paperwork done now, so it’s just a case of having a bit of income now and having the setup in place for when I want to go back. As long as the setup costs aren’t huge or the process complicated (which it sounds as if it’s not) then it seems worthwhile getting started. Thanks!

4

Hi Mary

AE registration is really quick & easy following which you immediately have healthcare, so you have nothing to lose if you are going to have a business even if you have to take a break part way through the year.

Will you be employed by a single client from now till Mid-Oct? Under AE you are supposed to have a number of clients but of course when you are only starting then you could have 1 initial client whilst being available to others…

I’m not sure if you will qualify for maternity unless you already have rights which are transferrable from previous employment in France/UK or other EU country?

It wouldn’t be a problem having no income for 6m as you don’t have to de-register for ages after 6m and presumably you would then look for more clients & start up havign income again.

I would recommend you join www.startbusinessinfrance.com as Valerie is an expert in everything AE and could probably advise you better.

Good Luck

Suz