CAF & benefits
CAF: housing and family benefits
Who can claim, and why the file takes so long.
Reviewed 10 September 2026 · Official source checked 28 October 2026
CAF administers housing aid (APL) and family benefits. Newcomers with a residence permit and a tenancy can often claim housing aid.
Expect to supply:
- Residence permit
- Tenancy agreement and landlord details
- Bank details (RIB)
- Birth certificates for children, often translated
Claims are commonly slow and requests for extra documents are normal. Submit everything through the CAF account rather than by post.
BonjourBase summarises public information and is not legal advice. Rules change — confirm details with the official source or a qualified professional.