Maximize Your Refunds with the CRIC Tax Credit (Québec)
Officially introduced in the 2025–2026 Budget, the CRIC provides a refundable tax incentive of up to 30% to Quebec businesses investing in R&D, innovation, and pre-commercialization. This powerful measure simplifies provincial funding while complementing your federal SR&ED claims.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
What Is the CRIC Tax Credit?
The CRIC tax credit replaces eight legacy provincial measures to streamline Quebec’s innovation funding. Our in-house team of tax and technical experts supports thousands of businesses each year in navigating these complex incentives to maximize financial returns.
How CRIC Can Save CCPCs Thousands (Example):
A manufacturing company based in Québec is investing boldly in innovation. In 2025, the company launched a growth initiative to support commercialization and product development.
Here is how their eligible expenses break down:
- Salaries for R&D team: $600,000
Equipment for testing (CAPEX): $300,000
Subcontracting (CTT partner): $200,000
Total Eligible Expenses: $1,100,000
👉 Total CRIC Refund Secured: $320,000
CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS
Navigate the Transition to CRIC with Confidence
Navigating the 8-in-1 Consolidation
Maximizing CRIC Alongside Federal SR&ED
Meeting Revenu Québec Documentation Standards
Leadership, Quantified
Our Impact in Figures
Years of Expertise
Countries
Industries served
Tax relief secured for clients
How it helps
How Your Funding is Calculated
The CRIC tax credit replaces eight legacy provincial measures to streamline Quebec’s innovation funding. Our in-house team of tax and technical experts supports thousands of businesses each year in navigating these complex incentives to maximize financial returns.
CRIC Tax Credit Highlights
Salaries: 100% refundable
Equipment (CAPEX): 100% refundable
Subcontracting: 50% refundable
CRIC Spending Brackets
First $1,000,000: 30% CRIC Rate
Above $1M: 20% CRIC Rate
OUR METHODOLOGY
Your Path to Success
Leyton guides you from first eligibility check to final refund. Our R&D consultants and tax specialists handle every step so you can focus on innovation.
Free eligibility assessment
We review your activities and expenses to confirm qualification and estimate your potential CRIC refund.
Activity & expense identification
Our consultants identify all CRIC-eligible activities and expenses across your Quebec operations.
Technical documentation
We prepare the required technical reports and financial summaries meeting Revenu Québec standards.
Dual benefit planning (CRIC + SR&ED)
We align your CRIC claim with federal SR&ED and other incentives to maximize your overall recovery without conflicts.
Claim submission & follow-up
We file your CRIC claim with your corporate tax return and manage any queries or audits from Revenu Québec.
Refund in 60–90 days
If properly filed and supported, CRIC refunds are typically processed by Revenu Québec within 60–90 days.
SECURE YOUR TAX CREDIT
Book a Free Assessment
Up to 30% back on R&D, Innovation & Pre-Commercialization Expenses. Our team will get in touch shortly to discuss how you can benefit from the CRIC tax credit.
CRIC FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before working with us.
What is the CRIC tax credit in Quebec?
The CRIC (Crédit d’impôt pour la recherche et l’innovation commerciale) is a new refundable tax credit launched in the 2025–2026 Quebec Budget. It helps businesses recover up to 30% of eligible R&D, innovation, and pre-commercialization expenses.
How is CRIC different from SR&ED?
While SR&ED is a federal program focused on scientific R&D, CRIC is a Quebec provincial initiative that covers broader innovation activities, including pre-commercialization and equipment purchases. The two programs can work in parallel for maximum benefit.
Who qualifies for the CRIC tax credit?
- Canadian-controlled private corporations (CCPCs)
- Québec-based SMEs and large enterprises
- Foreign-owned subsidiaries operating in Québec
What expenses are eligible under CRIC?
- Salaries of staff working on innovation activities
- Capital expenditures — equipment (CAPEX)
- Subcontracting to research organizations (universities, CCTTs, ORCs) at 50% of value
Can CRIC be combined with other tax credits?
CRIC cannot be combined with other Quebec tax incentives for the same expense (e.g., C3i). However, federal credits like SR&ED may still apply to the same project when properly structured.
When does the CRIC Tax Credit apply?
It applies to taxation years starting after March 25, 2025. The claim must be tied to a project previously started in Quebec.
How much can my business claim?
- 30% refund on the first $1M in eligible expenses (after exclusion threshold)
- 20% refund on any amount above $1M
- Subcontracting expenses are eligible at 50% of their value before the rate applies
What is the exclusion threshold for CRIC?
To qualify, eligible expenses must exceed the higher of: $50,000, or the sum of base amounts per eligible employee ($18,571 × % of time on eligible activities).
How do I apply for CRIC?
You’ll need to identify eligible activities and expenses, ensure they align with CRIC criteria, and submit your claim during your corporate tax filing. Our Leyton experts can guide you through every step to maximize your refund.
How long does it take to receive the CRIC refund?
If properly filed and supported, CRIC refunds are typically processed by Revenu Québec within 60–90 days, depending on complexity and audit risk.