French Life Insurance Contract Transformations

French Life Insurance Contract Transformations

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French Life Insurance Contract Transformations

Analysis of the "Fourgous" amendment in French life insurance law, focusing on contract transformations and tax implications.

French
France
FranceInvestmentFinanceRegulationLawInsurance
Nortia
Philippe Parguey
How has the "Fourgous" amendment evolved over time?
The 2014 and 2019 updates extended this possibility to contracts with euro-growth funds and all contracts within the same company, respectively, simplifying the process of upgrading older, less efficient policies.
Is the insurer obligated to facilitate contract transformations under the law?
The law allows for contract transformation, but it doesn't force insurers to do it; insurers define the transfer conditions. Annual client notification about this possibility and transfer conditions is required.
What are the practical challenges in utilizing the contract transformation option?
While theoretically cost-free to switch within the same insurer, the implementation varies; not all insurers readily facilitate this process, and the client might encounter obstacles.
What was the initial impact of the "Fourgous" amendment on the life insurance market?
The "Fourgous" amendment, part of the 2005 Breton law, initially allowed transforming single-support life insurance contracts into multi-support contracts without tax penalties, provided at least 20% of savings were invested in units of account.
What are the tax implications of switching life insurance contracts between different companies?
Switching insurers necessitates withdrawing funds from the old contract, potentially triggering tax implications based on the contract's opening date, premium payment dates, and the amount involved.