1. Validate your project
Before leaving your job, make sure your project stands up:
- are your skills in demand for freelance assignments? Look at listings and talk to freelancers in your field;
- can your network help you find assignments?
- do you have savings to cover a few months of expenses?
2. Review your employment contract
Some clauses can restrict your activity after you leave. Check in particular:
- the non-compete clause, which may bar you from working for certain competitors for a set period and area;
- any client clause, which may prevent you from working for your employer’s clients;
- your notice period, set by your contract or collective agreement.
If in doubt, get advice before committing to a new client.
3. Choose how to leave your job
- Resignation: you end the contract and work your notice period. In principle it does not entitle you to unemployment benefits, except in cases set out in the rules, such as a business creation project approved beforehand, subject to conditions.
- Mutual termination (rupture conventionnelle): you agree on your departure with your employer, who is free to accept or refuse. It entitles you to a payment at least equal to the statutory severance pay and, subject to conditions, to unemployment benefits.
Benefit rules change regularly: check your situation with France Travail, the French employment agency, before deciding.
4. Land your first assignment
Ideally, start looking during your notice period so you can move straight on:
- reach out to your network: former colleagues, managers, clients;
- update your LinkedIn profile and state your availability;
- sign up to freelance matching platforms;
- contact consulting firms that work with freelancers.
Prepare an assignment-focused CV: your projects, results, tech stack and availability.
5. Choose your status
To invoice your assignments, you have several options:
| How it works | Good to know | |
|---|---|---|
| Micro-enterprise | Simple to set up, contributions based on revenue | Revenue cap, expenses not deductible |
| Company (EURL, SASU…) | Dedicated structure, deductible expenses | Heavier bookkeeping and formalities, often with an accountant |
| Freemakers employee-partner | Payslip and partner share | Admin handled for you, in exchange for management fees |
The right choice depends on your day rate, your costs, the level of protection you want and how much time you want to spend on admin.
Practical guideIT freelance or permanent job: the comparison.6. Set your day rate
Your day rate must cover your income, contributions, costs and periods without an assignment. Calculate a minimum day rate, then compare it with market prices for your expertise.
Practical guideHow to calculate your day rate.7. Organise your business
- take out professional liability insurance, often required by clients;
- open a dedicated bank account if your status requires it;
- plan your pension and disability cover, depending on the protection your status offers;
- set aside time for admin, or delegate it.
Frequently asked questions
Should you find an assignment before resigning?
It is the most comfortable option. Otherwise, savings covering several months of expenses give you time to find the right assignment.
Can you receive unemployment benefits when going freelance?
Resigning does not, in principle, open any rights, with some exceptions. A mutual termination can, subject to conditions. As the rules for combining benefits with a new activity are complex, check with France Travail.
Can you work for your former employer as a freelancer?
It is possible if your contract does not forbid it and your former employer agrees. Check the clauses of your contract before committing.
This information is provided for guidance only, based on French rules, and does not replace personalised advice.