· 3 min read · updated
Subsidized vs non-subsidized daycare: what's the difference?
Fees, registration, tax credit: what really changes between subsidized and non-subsidized daycare in Québec in 2026.
In short
A subsidized daycare costs $9.65 a day in 2026, and its spots are given only through the Québec government's registration portal. A non-subsidized daycare sets its own rate, but Québec refunds 67% to 78% of the fees through the tax credit, and you register directly with the daycare.
It's often the first question parents ask when looking for a spot: should you wait for a subsidized daycare, or choose a non-subsidized one? Both offer an educational service overseen by the Ministère de la Famille. What changes is how you get a spot and how you pay.
How much does each type of daycare cost?
At a subsidized daycare you pay the reduced contribution, set by the government at $9.65 a day in 2026. A non-subsidized daycare sets its own daily rate.
But the posted rate isn't what you end up paying: fees at a non-subsidized daycare qualify for the tax credit for childcare expenses, which refunds a large part of the bill.
Are non-subsidized daycare fees refunded?
Depending on your family income, Québec refunds 67% to 78% of the fees, up to $12,525 a year for a child under 7. The credit can be paid to you every month, in advance, instead of in one amount at tax time. Our tax credit article explains it in detail.
How do you get a spot in each case?
This is the biggest difference. Subsidized spots are given out only through the Québec government's childcare registration portal (formerly La Place 0-5). The daycare itself cannot offer you a spot outside the portal. At a non-subsidized daycare, you contact the daycare directly, visit it and register your child with it.
Is the educational program the same?
Every recognized daycare, subsidized or not, must follow the Ministère de la Famille's educational program, Accueillir la petite enfance. The rules on safety, hygiene and the number of children per educator are the same.
Which to choose?
- If you find a subsidized spot close to home at the right time, it's the cheapest option.
- If the wait is long, a non-subsidized daycare lets you start when you need to, at a net cost that is often close once the tax credit is counted.
- Either way, visit the daycare and ask your questions before deciding.
At Le Pinceau, two of our thirteen daycares are subsidized (Samson and Notre-Dame): for those, registration goes through the portal. The other eleven are non-subsidized, and you can book a visit directly online.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
The reduced contribution is $9.65 a day in 2026. It is indexed every January 1.
Yes. Its fees qualify for the tax credit for childcare expenses, 67% to 78% depending on family income, and the credit can be paid monthly.
Only by registering your child on the Québec government's childcare registration portal (formerly La Place 0-5) and choosing the daycares you want there.