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EI caregiving benefits: eligibility and how to apply

FederalWorkChecked October 2, 2026

Check EI caregiver benefit eligibility, the three types of support, required documents and application steps. Confirm your situation with Service Canada.

How much

Up to 35 weeks for a child, 15 weeks for an adult, or 26 weeks of compassionate (end-of-life) care. Pays 55% of your earnings, up to $729 a week in 2026.

When it's paid

Paid every two weeks. Taxable. Weeks can be shared between eligible caregivers.

Self-employed? You can opt into EI special benefits, but you must register 12 months before you claim. How it works · Is it worth it for me?

Who qualifies

  • Caring for a critically ill or injured child (under 18) or adult (18+), or someone at end of life
  • You are a family member or considered like family (you don't need to live with them)
  • The condition is certified by a doctor or nurse practitioner
  • At least 600 insured hours in the 52 weeks before your claim (or since your last claim, if shorter), and weekly earnings down by more than 40% for at least 1 week

How to apply

  1. Get a medical certificate for the person you're caring for
  2. Apply online through Service Canada
  3. Each sharing caregiver applies separately
  4. Complete bi-weekly reports

What to have ready

  • Medical certificate
  • Social Insurance Number
  • Record of employment
  • Details about the person receiving care

Add to a printable checklist with other benefits

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Applying for the wrong type of caregiving benefit
  • Missing the medical certificate
  • Not coordinating shared weeks with other caregivers

Official sources

Last checked against these pages on October 2, 2026.

Related

  • Canada Caregiver Credit (CCC)The Canada Caregiver Credit lowers your income tax if you support a spouse, partner or dependant with a physical or…
  • EI sickness benefitsEI sickness benefits pay part of your income when you can't work for medical reasons. You can get up to 26 weeks.

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BenefitCanada is independent and not affiliated with any government. This guide summarizes official sources in plain language; rules and amounts change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.