The Caregiver Benefit recognizes the important role of caregivers in their efforts to assist loved ones and friends. The program is intended for caregivers of low income adults who have a high level of disability or impairment, as determined by a Home Care assessment. If the caregiver and the care recipient both qualify for the program, the caregiver will receive $400 per month.
The person receiving care must:
The caregiver must:
Both the caregiver and the person for whom he/she provides care must meet the program’s eligibility criteria. The Nova Scotia Health Authority determines eligibility through a referral and assessment process. The Caregiver Benefit is reportable income so caregivers should contact Canada Revenue Agency for information about tax implications.
If you feel you may qualify for the program you will need to contact Continuing Care at 1-800-225-7225 for an initial discussion about your situation. A referral may then be made to a care coordinator who will meet with you to do an assessment to identify your care needs and determine if you qualify for the program.
Applicants who are assessed as having high care needs have some combination of:
To qualify financially for the program, you must have a net annual income of $30,797 or less if single, or a total net household income of $45,797 or less, if married or common-law.
“Net Income” is the income identified on Line 236 of the federal Income Tax Return or in the Notice of Assessment provided by the Canada Revenue Agency.
To apply, call Continuing Care, toll free at 1-800-225-7225. You, your caregiver or someone else (with your consent) can make an application. You will need to provide your name, Health Card Number and some additional information about your situation.
The Department of Health and Wellness, Continuing Care Division has created policies and monitoring standards to ensure that there is a consistent quality of care for those who need services outside of the hospital, in their home, or in the community.
Visit Policies and Standards page.
To apply, call Continuing Care, at 1-800-225-7225.
Caregiver Benefit (PDF)
Caregiver Benefit: French (PDF)