Making Childcare More Accessible: The Affordable Child Care Benefit

We know that childcare is a significant investment for families, and navigating costs can feel overwhelming at times. At Saplings, we believe that access to high-quality, nature-based childcare should be as inclusive and supportive as possible. One way families may be able to reduce monthly childcare fees is through the BC Affordable Child Care Benefit.

What is the Affordable Child Care Benefit?

The Affordable Child Care Benefit (ACCB) is a monthly subsidy provided by the Province of British Columbia to help eligible families with the cost of licensed childcare. The benefit is income-tested and considers factors such as family size, household income, and the type of childcare your child attends.

Many families are surprised to learn they may qualify, even if they did not in previous years. Eligibility can change due to shifts in income, family circumstances, or care arrangements, so it is always worth checking.

How the benefit works

If approved, the Affordable Child Care Benefit is applied directly toward your childcare fees, reducing the amount you pay each month. Families apply for the benefit independently, and participation in the program does not affect your child’s place, experience, or involvement in our programs.

Receiving the ACCB is common and completely confidential. It is simply one of several supports available to help families access licensed childcare.

Who should consider applying?

You may want to apply if:

• Your child attends a licensed childcare program

• Your household income has changed recently

• Your family size or care needs have shifted

• You are unsure whether you qualify

Even families who assume they are not eligible are often encouraged to apply, as the criteria may be broader than expected.

How to apply

Applications are completed directly through the Province of British Columbia. You will be asked to provide some basic information and documentation, and processing times can vary, so applying early is recommended.

Learn more about the Affordable Child Care Benefit and apply here: Information for Families - ACCB

We’re here to help

If you have questions about how the Affordable Child Care Benefit works alongside your childcare fees, or need help understanding the process, please feel free to reach out to our team. We are always happy to support families in accessing the resources available to them.

Making childcare more accessible strengthens our whole community, and we encourage families to explore every option available.