Caregivers
Find benefits for you and the person you support, browse programs in all 13 provinces and territories, or start with practical care-planning guidance.
If you're struggling or having thoughts of suicide, you can call 9-8-8 or text 9-8-8 (9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline) any time, 24/7, in English or French. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911.
These pages collect programs and services available where you live. Open your province or territory to explore local caregiver support.
Pick the option that best matches what you need today.
Benefits are only one part of caregiving. These guides help with decisions, paperwork, and practical next steps.
Caregiver programs sit alongside disability, seniors, and family benefits. Browse government benefits for other supports you may qualify for.
Want a shortlist based on your household? Try the benefits quiz.
Sometimes. Employment Insurance caregiving benefits may replace part of your income when you stop work to care for someone who meets medical certificate rules. Provincial programs, tax credits, and respite are separate. Use the check-in below to see what to explore first for your situation.
Family caregiver benefits cover critically ill or injured adults or children. Compassionate care benefits cover end-of-life situations with significant risk of death within 26 weeks. They use different medical certificates. Service Canada confirms which stream fits.
Family caregiver benefits are for critical illness or injury (separate adult and child rules). Compassionate care benefits are for end-of-life care with a significant risk of death within 26 weeks. They are not interchangeable.
Provincial employment standards may protect your job while you are away. EI caregiving benefits may replace part of your income if you qualify. Those are separate systems with different rules.
The Canada caregiver credit and related lines on your tax return may apply when you support an eligible dependant. A tax credit is not the same as weekly EI caregiving benefits.