French Banks Accused of Excessive Fees on Seized Accounts

French banks are facing criticism from the National Union of Family Associations (Unaf) over what it describes as disproportionate fees levied during account seizures. Unaf argues these charges further destabilize individuals already struggling with financial difficulties, creating a "double penalty."

According to Unaf's estimates, more than 20 million account seizure acts affecting individuals took place in 2025. The association notes a rising trend, citing a threefold increase in seizure orders for fines and pecuniary condemnations between 2019 and 2025. When the Public Treasury or a judicial officer seizes a bank account, banks typically charge specific fees for processing these acts.

Unaf's study of 101 French banks revealed that most charge over 100 euros for a seizure-attribution, with some fees reaching up to 250 euros. Alarmingly, four out of five banks apply these charges even when the account balance is insufficient or the operation is unsuccessful. In some cases, repeated monthly fees can accumulate to exceed the original debt amount.

Only a quarter of banks offer protections for clients with the "Offre Client Fragile" (OCF) status, designed for those in financial distress. Unaf is advocating for stricter oversight of these seizure-related banking fees, similar to regulations already in place for administrative seizures. They propose limiting fees for ineffectual seizures, enhancing protections for vulnerable clients, and establishing an annual cap on seizure charges.

Unaf estimates these fees generate hundreds of millions of euros in annual revenue for the banking sector. The association contends that the retail banking model should not place an additional burden on financially struggling clients, potentially worsening their situations without effectively ensuring debt repayment.

“

These fees represent several hundred million euros in turnover for the banking sector each year. The business model of retail banking cannot continue to weigh on clients in financial difficulty, at the risk of further aggravating their situation without even promoting effective repayment of debts.