Undeclared Work - Evidence from France

Abstract

This study quantifies undeclared work patterns in France using a unique pilot survey which collects data on households' demand and supply of undeclared work (Enquête pilote auprès des ménages sur la fraude). It also proposes an international comparison at the European level using Eurobarometer data. Socio-demographic characteristics fail to explain the variance in undeclared work, while subjective factors are strongly associated with households’ supply and demand for undeclared work. This suggests the underlying influence of intrinsic, extrinsic and peer effects. Similar results from the Eurobarometer allow for a cross-validation of the two surveys. We obtain similar correlates for undeclared work in France and countries where undeclared work is also a supplementary income (Denmark and Germany). This suggests homogeneous patterns across European countries.