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Québec childcare tax credit in 2026: how much you get back
Rates by income, yearly limit per child, monthly advance payments: everything about Québec's tax credit for childcare expenses in 2026.
In short
In 2026, Québec refunds 67% to 78% of childcare fees depending on family income, up to $12,525 a year for a child under 7. Revenu Québec can pay the credit monthly instead of at tax time.
If your child attends a non-subsidized daycare, much of what you pay comes back to you through Revenu Québec's refundable tax credit for childcare expenses. Here is how it works.
What is the credit rate for my income?
The lower the family income, the higher the rate. Here is Revenu Québec's table for 2026:
| Family income | Credit rate |
|---|---|
| $0 to $25,305 | 78% |
| $25,305 to $44,620 | 75% |
| $44,620 to $46,270 | 74% |
| $46,270 to $47,935 | 73% |
| $47,935 to $49,565 | 72% |
| $49,565 to $51,225 | 71% |
| $51,225 to $122,290 | 70% |
| Over $122,290 | 67% |
Is there a limit per child?
The credit applies to childcare fees up to $12,525 a year for a child under 7. Fees above that are not refunded. The limits are higher for a child with a severe and prolonged impairment.
Can the credit be paid monthly?
You don't have to wait for your tax return. You can ask Revenu Québec for advance payments: the credit is then paid to you every month, easing the bill as you go. The request is made to Revenu Québec, online or with the dedicated form.
Which receipts do I need?
Each year the daycare gives you an RL-24 slip showing the childcare fees you paid. That slip is what the credit is calculated from on your tax return.
What about federal?
Federally, childcare fees also qualify for a deduction (line 21400 of the return), usually claimed by the parent with the lower income. It lowers the real cost further.
How much does a family get, in practice?
For a family with a family income of $80,000, the rate is 70%. On $12,525 of eligible fees, the credit reaches $8,768, about $731 a month in advance payments.
At Le Pinceau, our team helps you prepare your advance refund file as soon as you register.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
From 78% for a family income of $25,305 or less, down to 67% above $122,290.
Yes, by asking Revenu Québec for advance payments. The credit is then paid every month instead of at tax time.
$12,525 a year for a child under 7 in 2026.