Why does CAF suspend APL without warning?
A suspension of APL often comes as a nasty surprise. CAF can block payments for several reasons: you didn't submit your quarterly income declaration on time, you changed circumstances (moved, got a job, separated) without declaring it, a document is missing from your file, or an automatic check flagged an anomaly. In every case, CAF is obliged to notify you of the reason for suspension by letter. If you haven't received any explanation, start by calling your local CAF.
You have 2 months to appeal — no more
An administrative appeal must be filed within 2 months of receiving the suspension notice. After that, you'll need to go through the Commission de Recours Amiable (CRA), which takes longer. Act quickly as soon as you receive the notice. A well-argued appeal can result in benefits being reinstated with retroactive payment covering the period of unjustified suspension.
What your appeal letter must contain
Your letter must be factual and precise. State your allocataire number, the date of the suspension notice, the reason given by CAF, and your arguments against that reason. Attach all relevant supporting documents. If CAF cites a missing document that you already provided, include a new copy along with proof of the original submission. Avoid emotional language — stick to the facts.
CAF acknowledges the mistake: what about repayment?
If your appeal succeeds, APL is reinstated and unpaid amounts during the suspension period are reimbursed to you. This retroactive payment usually arrives within a month of the favourable decision. If you haven't received reimbursement within 6 weeks of the decision, follow up with CAF by recorded letter.
CRA and court: the next steps
If your administrative appeal is rejected, refer the matter to the Commission de Recours Amiable by recorded letter within 2 months of the refusal. The CRA has 2 months to respond. If it upholds the decision, you have a further 2 months to take the case to the social affairs court.