Compare the cost of subsidized and non-subsidized childcare in 2026

This calculator lets you compare the net daily cost for children under 5 years of age in 2026. It takes into account childcare assistance offered by the Québec and federal governments.

The Québec government offers a tax credit for childcare expenses to parents whose children attend non-subsidized childcare. The federal government offers a child care expenses deduction for childcare expenses, regardless of the type of childcare attended.

Compare childcare costs

The amounts obtained from this calculator are estimates based on the most common situations. The exact amounts will be determined when you file your tax return.

Calculation example

Consider a couple, where each spouse has an employment income of $50 000. Their child attends a non subsidized childcare service at $45 per day.

However, this couple pays a much lower net daily rate. This net rate is $8.92, thanks in part to the refundable tax credit for childcare expenses.

This is therefore comparable to what the couple would pay if the child attended subsidized childcare ($8.21).

Furthermore, this couple could choose to claim the Québec tax credit for childcare expenses during the year. This tax credit can be paid in advance if a request is made to Revenu Québec.