Caregiver benefits module

Canada Caregiver Benefits, EI & Compassionate Care Support

Review income replacement for time away from work, tax relief for supporting an infirm dependant and related provincial leave or support programs.

Programs and possible benefits

Amounts are dated official maximums, not a personal estimate or promise of payment.

Up to $729/week

2026 maximum. Benefits generally replace 55% of insurable earnings up to the annual cap.

Tax relief varies by dependant and income

A non-refundable credit for eligible support of a spouse, partner or dependant with an impairment. The claim amount is not a cash payment.

Leave rules vary by jurisdiction

Employment standards and whether leave is paid or unpaid depend on the applicable federal, provincial or territorial law.

The guide asks more specific questions based on the program and your province or territory.

Have insurable employment and meet the reduction-in-earnings and hours rules for EI caregiving benefits.
Obtain a medical certificate confirming the person is critically ill, injured or needs end-of-life care.
For the caregiver credit, support an eligible dependant with an impairment in physical or mental functions.
Keep tax, relationship, support and medical documentation relevant to the claim.

How many weeks of EI caregiving benefits are available?

The maximum varies by benefit type and who receives care. Eligible caregivers may share the available weeks.

Is the Canada Caregiver Credit a monthly payment?

No. It is a non-refundable income tax credit and can reduce federal tax owing.

Can more than one caregiver claim support?

Some EI weeks can be shared, and tax-credit sharing rules depend on the claim. The guide flags where coordination is needed.

Open the module guide for source-by-source screening.