Applications for the Large Families Card are surging, boosted by a simplified acquisition process. This card provides significant discounts on transportation and various services for families with three or more children, including blended families. A digital version was launched in January 2023, with further enhancements expected in 2025 to streamline applications further. Despite the rise in applications, many eligible families have yet to apply, indicating potential for future growth.
Increased Applications for the Large Families Card
The Large Families card, which was nearly phased out in 2008, is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in applications, thanks to the ongoing simplification of its acquisition process. Designed for families with three or more children, including blended families, this card has no income restrictions. It offers substantial discounts (beginning at 30%) on transportation (SNCF, RATP) as well as with various retailers and service providers such as restaurants and holiday resorts, making it an essential tool for managing everyday expenses for these families.
As of January 2023, a digital version of the card has been introduced, accessible via smartphones, alongside the traditional versions. Looking ahead, the process for obtaining this card will become even more streamlined starting January 2025.
Streamlined Application Process
The upcoming changes promise to make the application process faster and more user-friendly. In just two years, the number of applications has risen by 40%. “Prior to 2023, the application process was cumbersome; applicants had to gather a physical file, submit identity photos, and pay for shipping,” shares Jacques Velot, the director of transport and mobility at IN Groupe, the organization responsible for these cards, in an interview with the Parisien. Previously, only about 100,000 applications were processed annually, leading to the issuance of approximately 400,000 cards. Currently, that number has increased to around 140,000 applications per year, reflecting a growing interest.
Another contributing factor to this increase is the inclusion of blended families, which have been eligible for the card since 2017 and now make up 16% of large families in France, according to Insee. “Many were previously unaware of their eligibility,” notes Jacques Velot, highlighting the expanding audience of beneficiaries.
The year 2025 will bring significant advancements in the application process. With a direct connection to the Family Allowance Fund (CAF) accounts, families will be able to auto-fill their applications, reducing the time required to just five to ten minutes, down from the current twenty minutes, as explained by Jacques Velot. Moreover, families in need of immediate assistance will be pleased to learn that the digital version of the card can be obtained within 24 to 48 hours, with the physical card arriving shortly thereafter.
The network of participating partners continues to grow, further enhancing the card’s appeal. Notable brands like Intermarché and Interhome, which offers vacation rentals in France and Europe, have recently joined this initiative. “Every year, we welcome new partners, which in turn attracts more families,” says Guillemette Leneveu. The card is now accepted at 56,000 retail locations across France.
Despite its success, a significant number of eligible families have yet to apply for this card. Currently, 380,000 families are benefiting from it, while an estimated 1.7 million could qualify. “We are optimistic that the upcoming enhancements in 2025 will encourage more households to take advantage of this opportunity,” concludes the Unaf.