Estimate your CMG (Complément de libre choix du Mode de Garde) childcare benefit.
What is the PAJE and CMG?
PAJE (Prestation d'Accueil du Jeune Enfant) is a set of benefits for families with young children. CMG (Complément de libre choix du Mode de Garde) is the main childcare component, covering part of the cost of using a childminder (assistante maternelle) or home childcare (garde à domicile) for children under 6.
What are the CMG amounts for 2025?
CMG amounts vary by income, child age, and childcare type. For a childminder with a child under 3: €520.76/month (low income), €442.55/month (middle), or €364.35/month (high income). For home childcare, amounts are higher. Children aged 3-6 receive approximately half these amounts.
What types of childcare are covered?
CMG covers: (1) Assistante maternelle agréée (approved childminder) employed directly or through a micro-crèche. (2) Garde à domicile (home childcare worker) employed directly. (3) CMG structure for childcare in approved micro-crèches. Crèches collectives (daycare centers) are not covered by CMG.
What are the income thresholds for CMG?
Income thresholds are based on the household’s N-2 reference income. For 1 child: Tier 1 up to ~€22,191, Tier 2 up to ~€49,313, Tier 3 above. Each additional child adds approximately €5,000 to the thresholds. Higher-income families still receive CMG, just at a lower tier.
Compliance: This calculator uses official French tax rates for 2025. Results are indicative — for complex situations, consult a tax professional.
How the CAF helps families pay for childcare in France
What is the CMG?
The CMG (Complément de libre choix du Mode de Garde) is a CAF benefit that helps pay for childcare for children under 6. It covers part of the cost when you use a registered childminder (assistante maternelle), home nanny, or approved crèche. The amount depends on your income, number of children, and the child's age.
How much can you receive?
For a child under 3 with a childminder, the CMG can cover up to 85% of the cost, with a maximum of about €506 per month for low incomes, €320 for middle incomes, and €192 for higher incomes. For children aged 3–6, the amounts are halved. The CAF also pays the employer social charges on behalf of the family.
What is the tax credit for childcare expenses?
On top of the CMG, you can claim a tax credit (crédit d'impôt) of 50% of childcare expenses outside the home, capped at €3,500 per child per year (so a maximum credit of €1,750). The expenses you declare must be net of any CMG received. This applies to children under 6 in a crèche, with a childminder, or in a halte-garderie.
What types of childcare qualify?
Qualifying childcare includes: registered childminders (assistantes maternelles agréées), home nannies (gardes à domicile), micro-crèches, collective crèches, and halte-garderies. The carer must be officially registered with the PMI (Protection Maternelle et Infantile). Unregistered babysitting does not qualify for CMG.
How do income thresholds work for CMG?
The CAF uses your N-2 income (two years ago) to set your tier. For a couple with one child: below about €22,000 gives the highest rate, between €22,000 and €49,000 gives the middle rate, and above €49,000 gives the lowest rate. These thresholds increase with each additional child. Even high earners receive some CMG.
How do you apply for CMG?
Apply on caf.fr or at your local CAF. You will need your employment contract with the childminder (or the crèche agreement), your income details, and your child's birth certificate. If you employ a childminder directly, you must also register with Pajemploi, the URSSAF service that handles salary declarations and social charges for childcare workers.
DGFiP-Aligned: Based on 2025 DGFiP rates and thresholds. For personal advice, speak to a qualified expert-comptable (chartered accountant).
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current French tax rates and thresholds for the 2025 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified tax adviser before making financial decisions. Read our terms
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