Name the beneficiary
The plan is opened for one or more future students, depending on the plan type and eligibility.
RESP planning for Québec families
Small contributions.
Big possibilities.
Turn regular education savings into a clearer plan by understanding contributions, government incentives, investment time and future withdrawals.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”— Nelson Mandela
01
Where are you in the journey?
Choose one starting point. It will follow you to the consultation form.
02
An RESP is more than an account.
Choose a contribution rhythm
A realistic recurring amount can make education saving easier to maintain.
Use the time horizon
The investment approach can evolve as the start of post-secondary studies gets closer.
Plan the exit
Understand contributions, educational assistance payments and documentation before withdrawals begin.
03
Contributions can unlock
education incentives.
Eligibility and provider participation matter. Confirm the rules for your child and plan.
Additional incentives may apply based on family income and eligibility. Rules can change; figures should be confirmed before acting.
04
Build your RESP discussion list.
Select everything you want to cover. You can review or remove the topics on the consultation form.
Choose any item to build your discussion list.
RESP grants in Québec: understand the differences
Federal grant: CESG
The basic CESG adds 20% of eligible contributions, normally up to $500 per year. Additional amounts depend on family income. The lifetime CESG maximum is $7,200 per beneficiary. Unused grant room may allow catch-up contributions; special contribution-history rules apply at ages 16 and 17.
Québec grant: QESI
The basic QESI is 10% of eligible net annual contributions, normally up to $250. Unused rights can increase the basic annual amount to $500. An income-based supplement can add up to $50 annually. The lifetime maximum is $3,600. Confirm that your RESP provider offers the QESI.
QESI eligibility
For the year concerned, the child must be under 18, have a social insurance number, reside in Québec on December 31 and be named as the RESP beneficiary. Extra conditions apply at ages 16 and 17. The RESP trustee applies to Revenu Québec.
Canada Learning Bond: no contribution required
Eligible children from low-income families born in 2004 or later may receive up to $2,000 through the CLB. Personal contributions are not required. Canadian residency, a valid SIN, income eligibility and an RESP are among the requirements. Ask a participating provider to check eligibility.
Example: $2,500 in eligible contributions could attract $500 in basic CESG and $250 in basic QESI. This assumes eligibility, available grant room and provider participation; it excludes income-based supplements and catch-up amounts. Grants are not an investment return.
When your child starts post-secondary studies
Your contributions
Contributions were made with after-tax money and can be withdrawn tax-free. Ask the provider whether a withdrawal could trigger grant repayments before taking money out.
Educational assistance payments (EAPs)
EAPs combine grants and investment earnings and are taxable to the student. Eligible enrolment, proof of enrolment and withdrawal limits apply. Funds can help cover tuition, books, transportation and other eligible study expenses.
Québec RESP questions
Can I get benefits if I cannot contribute?
Possibly. The Canada Learning Bond does not require personal contributions, but eligibility must be confirmed and an RESP is required. CESG and QESI payments depend on eligible contributions.
Does every RESP offer the Québec grant?
Confirm provider participation before opening or transferring a plan. Ask about QESI applications, fees and any transfer restrictions.
Can we catch up after starting late?
Unused grant rights may allow catch-up, within annual and lifetime limits. The child’s age and past contributions matter, especially at 16 and 17. Have the provider check the history across all RESPs.
Is an RESP only for university?
No. Eligible post-secondary programs can include college and other qualifying institutions. Confirm the institution and program with the provider before requesting an EAP.
What if my child does not pursue eligible studies?
Options may include keeping the plan open, changing the beneficiary or making an eligible transfer. Closing a plan can require grant repayments and create tax consequences for earnings. Review the rules and contract before deciding.
Official sources
Content reviewed October 2, 2026. General educational information; confirm current rules and your circumstances before acting.
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Give education savings a clearer direction.
Start with the child, the timeline and a contribution you can sustain.