On your first paycheque in Quebec, a "QPP" line (Quebec Pension Plan) trims your take-home pay. It's a mandatory contribution that funds your future retirement pension. The parameters change every year — here are the 2026 figures.
The earnings ceiling. The maximum pensionable earnings (MPE) rises to $74,600 in 2026. Above that amount, you no longer contribute to the base plan.
The starting exemption. Your first $3,500 of work income is exempt. The contribution is therefore calculated on the slice of salary between $3,500 and $74,600.
The rate. As an employee, you pay 6.3% on that slice — that is, 5.3% for the base plan plus 1% for the first additional contribution. The maximum employee contribution reaches $4,895.30 for the year (base contribution and supplements included, up to $85,000 in earnings). Your employer pays an equal share on their side.
Higher salaries. If you earn more than $74,600, a second additional contribution of 4% applies to the slice between $74,600 and $85,000, up to a maximum of $416. Above $85,000, you stop contributing.
Why it keeps rising. These ceilings track growth in the average wage. A higher contribution today builds a more generous pension later: the QPP isn't a tax you lose, it's forced saving in your name.
Good to know for newcomers. You contribute to the QPP from your very first job, whatever your immigration status, as long as you work in Quebec. Those contribution years count toward your future pension, even if you leave the country later — Quebec has agreements with several countries so your rights aren't lost. Check your statement of participation on Retraite Québec's My Account once a year to confirm your earnings are correctly recorded.
