Childcare Cost Calculator

Calculate childcare costs with provincial subsidies and federal tax credits

Childcare Cost Calculator

Calculate Your Childcare Costs in New Brunswick

Estimate childcare expenses with subsidies and tax credits for 2026

Working Toward $10/Day
New Brunswick is working toward the federal $10-a-day target. Current average: $19/day. Subsidies available.

Combined household income (affects tax deduction)

New Brunswick average: $19/day

Typical: 260 days (5 days/week × 52 weeks)

Press Enter or click Calculate to see your detailed cost breakdown

Province-Specific

Accurate rates and subsidies for New Brunswick childcare programs

Tax Savings

Calculates federal child care expense deduction based on your income

$10/Day Progress

Shows New Brunswick's progress toward the federal $10-a-day target

Understanding Childcare Costs in New Brunswick

Childcare costs in Canada vary significantly by province. The federal government has partnered with provinces and territories to reduce childcare fees to an average of $10 per day by March 2026. New Brunswick is working toward this goal, with current average rates around $19 per day.

Our calculator helps you estimate your actual childcare costs after accounting for federal tax deductions and provincial subsidies. The federal government allows you to deduct up to $8,000 per child under 7 (or $5,000 for children aged 7-16) from your taxable income, which can result in significant tax savings depending on your income level.

How to Use the Childcare Calculator

1

Enter Your Family Income

Input your combined household income. This affects the federal tax deduction amount you can claim and determines your marginal tax rate for calculating savings.

2

Set Daily Childcare Rate

Enter what you currently pay or expect to pay per day. The calculator pre-fills with New Brunswick's average rate ($19/day), but you can adjust based on your specific situation.

3

Specify Days and Children

Enter how many days per year you need childcare (typically 260 for full-time) and the number of children. The calculator will compute total costs and per-child breakdowns.

4

Review Your Results

See your net daily cost after federal tax deductions and provincial subsidies, along with monthly and annual totals. The calculator shows exactly how much government support you receive.

Childcare Support in New Brunswick

$10-a-Day Status

New Brunswick is working toward the $10-a-day target. Current average rates are $19/day, with subsidies available to reduce costs.

Federal Tax Deduction

Claim up to $8,000 per child under 7 or $5,000 per child aged 7-16 on your federal tax return. The actual savings depend on your marginal tax rate.

Provincial Programs

New Brunswick offers various childcare programs and subsidies. Check with your local childcare provider about participating in federal-provincial agreements.

Cost Reduction

Between federal tax deductions and provincial subsidies, families can save 20-50% on childcare costs depending on income level and province.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the $10-a-day childcare program?

The Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) plan is a federal initiative to reduce childcare fees to an average of $10 per day by March 2026. The federal government has signed agreements with all provinces and territories to achieve this goal. Some provinces like Quebec, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland have already reached this target.

How much can I claim for childcare expenses on my taxes?

For 2026, you can claim up to $8,000 per child under 7 years old, $5,000 per child aged 7-16, and $11,000 for children with disabilities. The deduction is claimed by the lower-income spouse and reduces your taxable income, resulting in tax savings based on your marginal tax rate.

What types of childcare qualify for the tax deduction?

Eligible childcare includes daycare centers, nursery schools, day camps, boarding schools, home daycare providers, and babysitters. The care must be provided so you or your spouse can work, attend school, or conduct research. You need official receipts showing the provider's name, address, and Social Insurance Number or business number.

Are all childcare centers part of the $10-a-day program?

No, not all centers participate. Only licensed childcare providers that have signed agreements with their provincial government are part of the program. Private centers that haven't opted in may charge higher rates. Check with your childcare provider to confirm if they participate in the federal-provincial childcare agreement.

How do I apply for childcare subsidies in New Brunswick?

Contact your local childcare provider or visit your New Brunswick government's childcare services website to learn about available subsidies and application processes. Requirements and processes vary by province.

What if I can't find affordable childcare?

Consider alternatives like home-based daycares, nanny sharing with another family, flexible work arrangements, or employer-sponsored childcare benefits. Some employers offer childcare subsidies or flexible spending accounts. You can also explore part-time options or staggered work schedules with your partner to reduce childcare needs.

How long are waitlists for subsidized childcare?

Waitlists vary significantly by location and can range from a few months to over a year in high-demand areas. It's recommended to apply as early as possible, even before your child is born. Some provinces maintain centralized waitlists while others require you to apply directly to individual centers.

Official Sources & References

Province-Specific Calculations

This calculator uses New Brunswick-specific tax rates, deductions, and credits to provide accurate results for your province.

Compare Across Provinces