So East it's Ouest

So I've mentioned a little thing called 'CAF' in the past, it's a little way to get some of your rent paid for by the government.  What hit me this time while I was filling out some of my paperwork was the differences between American welfare and the French social welfare systems.  In fact welfare isn't even the right word.  Welfare is what happens in the US, it's looked at as being for people in DIRE need and it isn't seen in the best of light, it's great if you can figure out some good programs but France is very different.  It's looked on as a sign of being savvy if you can figure out how (and the patience and diligence it takes to jump through bureaucratic hoops) to get reimbursed by the government, because in basis that's what it is.   Taxes in France are much higher than the United States, somewhere in the 40% income tax range and France loves to add on other taxes as well.  In your taxes you automatically have CAF, work accidents, care for...

Oh France.  You're so beautiful but so complicated.  You're so up tight but you love you some fries.  You can be so polite but you choose to be rude.  France, Fraaaannnce why do you act like you do?  This is an ode to one small portion of the French buraucratic system known as ' la CAF ' or 'Caisse allocation familial' that is sooooo French.   What is CAF?   CAF is a housing stipend that is available to many people especially poor people (me) or people with kids.  You can even get the stipend even if you are not french, yes! How do you get CAF?  You send in every piece of information about yourself and your logeing.  In the end you would rather just send in a blood sample, all your ID cards and your life story if it would go faster. How long does it take?   For ev er for ev er for ev er.  I sent in my documents in October and I am just now getting my stipend the end of April. So why the hassle for CAF?  Basical...