Living as a couple isn't just for the young. Many seniors over 60—and well beyond—form new partnerships after divorce or widowhood. The Civil Solidarity Pact (PACS), like marriage, formalizes this union, outlining rights, obligations, shared expenses, and estate planning.
The PACS is a legal way to commit to life as a couple, similar to marriage or free union (cohabitation). Each option carries distinct legal rights and duties for partners.
Anyone can enter a PACS, regardless of age—even after 60—as long as both partners are adults of the same or opposite sex. You cannot be currently married or in another PACS, but divorcees or widows/widowers qualify immediately post-dissolution.
Direct family members (parents, children, siblings, grandparents, etc.) are excluded, but cousins are eligible. Those under guardianship or curatorship may also participate.
Register at your local town hall or with a notary. Sign the official Cerfa form n°15725*02, "Joint Declaration of a Civil Solidarity Pact (PACS)." This commits partners to cohabitation, mutual material aid (up to specified amounts), joint liability for daily living expenses (excluding excessive ones), and joint income taxation.
Choose between separation of property (default, preserving pre-PACS assets) or joint ownership for future acquisitions.
PACS secures shared life for older couples, protecting assets and partners through tailored arrangements.
Partners agree on splitting daily costs, excluding "manifestly excessive" expenses like large loans. Open joint or undivided bank accounts requiring mutual approval.
Note: PACS affects benefits. All income counts toward family allowances, housing aid, AAH, RSA—but you lose eligibility for ASF or widowhood allowances.
Default separation regime keeps pre-PACS property, income (e.g., pensions), and future acquisitions individual. Opt for joint ownership if desired; personal assets, inheritances, or donations remain separate.
PACS partners are third parties in succession law, so draft a will for tax-free bequests. Alternatives: lifetime donations or naming your partner as life insurance beneficiary.
Survivors may receive death benefits or annuities, especially from work-related incidents.
