In recent years, an increasing number of retirees in France have opted to supplement their incomes by returning to work after retirement. This trend, known as "cumul emploi-retraite," allows them to significantly boost their earnings—sometimes by more than 50%. As inflation and stagnant pensions put financial pressure on many, this practice has gained momentum, with 381,000 retirees from the Agirc-Arrco scheme participating in 2022 alone, representing about 3.1% of all retirees.
The Agirc-Arrco, a pension scheme for private sector employees, has documented this growing trend. The average pension in France is approximately 1,500 euros per month, which many retirees find insufficient to maintain their pre-retirement standard of living. With the rising cost of living, many retirees are turning to part-time work or flexible jobs that allow them to stay active while improving their financial situation.
Retirees who take advantage of the "cumul emploi-retraite" earn an average of 923 euros gross per month from their work, raising their total income to 2,678 euros gross monthly. This represents a substantial increase in their purchasing power, providing them with a much-needed buffer against rising prices.
Aside from financial reasons, many retirees also seek to return to work for personal fulfillment. Staying engaged in the workforce helps combat feelings of isolation and provides a sense of purpose. As one retiree noted, "Working allows me to feel useful and maintain social connections, which is crucial for my well-being after retirement."
The impact of the pension reform implemented in September 2023 is expected to further influence this trend. The new regulations allow retirees to earn additional retirement rights while working, making the option of returning to work even more appealing. This change could encourage more retirees to extend their careers, not only for immediate financial benefits but also to enhance their future pensions.
The Agirc-Arrco reports that sectors such as education, health, and consulting are particularly popular among retirees looking for work. These fields often offer flexible hours and value the experience that older workers bring. In fact, 45% of retirees taking advantage of this scheme prefer part-time positions, allowing them to balance work with their physical capabilities.
Looking ahead, projections indicate that the number of retirees participating in "cumul emploi-retraite" could increase by 15% to 20% by 2026. This shift reflects not only a changing economic landscape but also a societal evolution where retirement is no longer synonymous with inactivity.
Despite the benefits, retirees must navigate certain administrative challenges. Many are often confused about whether they need to declare their resources to the Agirc-Arrco to avoid suspension of their supplementary pensions. Contrary to popular belief, most retirees are not required to submit an annual income declaration. However, specific situations, such as engaging in "cumul emploi-retraite," may necessitate providing supporting documents.
In March 2025, the Agirc-Arrco has emphasized the importance of retirees staying informed about their obligations. With the modernization of their online platform in March 2023, retirees can now easily manage their accounts, track their rights, and receive alerts about necessary actions. This tool is crucial for maintaining clarity and ensuring that retirees do not miss important notifications.
As the financial landscape continues to shift, the "cumul emploi-retraite" scheme stands out as a viable solution for many retirees seeking to enhance their quality of life. This practice not only provides financial relief but also fosters a sense of community and purpose, proving that retirement can be a dynamic and fulfilling phase of life.
In summary, the "cumul emploi-retraite" has emerged as a winning strategy for numerous retirees aiming to maintain a decent income and improve their quality of life. Supported by recent reforms, this trend is likely to expand further in the coming years, addressing the growing demand for financial autonomy and personal fulfillment among seniors.
