Manitoba Child Care Subsidy
Beginning September 13, 2026, Manitoba will eliminate the family contribution and non-subsidized daily fee for families who qualify for the Child Care Subsidy and are approved for subsidized licensed care. This is not universal free child care: you must meet program rules and apply.
What is changing
Effective September 13, 2026, both the family contribution and the non-subsidized daily fee will be eliminated for all eligible families under Manitoba's Child Care Subsidy Program. Manitoba describes this as making child care free for eligible families who receive an approved subsidy in a licensed program.
What this does not mean
Not all Manitoba child care becomes free. Families who do not qualify for the subsidy, who use unlicensed care, or who are on a waitlist without an approved subsidized space may still pay full fees. MyEligible cannot confirm your subsidy amount or approval.
Who may qualify
Eligibility is based on the reason for care and calculations in Manitoba's Child Care Regulation (M.R. 62/86). Manitoba's published factors include:
- Annual household income
- Allowable family deductions based on family composition, dependent children under 18, and whether the child needing care has additional support needs
- Number and ages of children
- Cost of licensed child care
- Children from 12 weeks to 12 years in licensed child care (per Manitoba's program page)
- Approved reason for care under provincial rules
Use Manitoba's Subsidy Eligibility Estimator before applying. Approval and fee amounts are determined by Manitoba, not by this guide.
How to apply
Register for Manitoba's online subsidy application portal to save and submit an application. You need a licensed child care arrangement and supporting income information. Update your application when income, care arrangements, or family composition changes.
Last reviewed for this tool: 2026-08-23. Amounts may change.
Related family guides
Information only. Not legal or financial advice. Does not decide whether you qualify for Manitoba's Child Care Subsidy or calculate your fees. Confirm eligibility, amounts, and application steps with Manitoba.