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EI caregiving benefits

FederalWorkChecked October 2, 2026

EI caregiving benefits help you take time off work to care for someone who is critically ill, injured or near the end of life. There are three types.

How much

Up to 35 weeks for a child, 15 weeks for an adult, or 26 weeks of compassionate (end-of-life) care. Paid as a percentage of your earnings up to a weekly maximum, like other EI benefits.

When it's paid

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

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
  • Enough insurable hours and a significant drop in weekly earnings

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

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Applying for the wrong type of caregiving benefit
  • Missing the medical certificate
  • Not coordinating shared weeks with other caregivers
Still being confirmed: The caregiving rate and weekly maximum (likely 55%, up to $729/week in 2026, as for other EI benefits) and the hours requirement were not confirmed on a caregiving page. Check the official page for the latest details.

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.