Caregiver Recognition Benefit

About this program

Having a disability sometimes means you need ongoing care to remain in your home. The Caregiver Recognition Benefit recognizes the important role a caregiver delivers on a day-to-day basis by providing them $1000 per month, tax free.

To receive this benefit your case manager will conduct or arrange an assessment to confirm that you require the assistance of a caregiver.

Do you qualify?

You should apply for the Caregiver Recognition Benefit if:

are a former member of the Canadian Armed Forces,
have a Disability Award,
you are not a permanent resident of a nursing home or long-term care facility,
require ongoing assistance with activities of daily living related to your awarded condition, and
your ongoing care (expected to last at least 12 months) should be to the extent that:
- you need daily physical assistance of another person for at least four of your activities of daily living [See Q8: What are activities of daily living?], and
your informal caregiver is:
- not paid to provide or co-ordinate your care; and
- 18 years of age or older

^* This program is only available to recipients of a disability award. If you have a disability pension or POW compensation of 1% or more, you can apply for a similar benefit—the Attendance Allowance.

How to apply

Before you apply

As part of your application, your caregiver will be asked to provide proof of identity, for example a driver’s licence. We need this from any person applying to Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) for the first time.

Fill out the application form with your caregiver. Both of you must sign the form.

You can expect a decision within eight weeks of submitting your application. Your caregiver will begin to receive the benefit within nine weeks.

Apply online

If you are registered for My VAC Account, you can submit your application for this benefit online. My VAC Account offers a guided web form that makes applying easier. If you aren't registered, you can register now.

My VAC Account

Mail or in person

Download the application form. Then, drop it off at a VAC Area Office or at any Service Canada office. You can also mail your completed form directly to the address listed on the form.

Go to form

Get help with your application

The staff at any VAC office or Integrated Personnel Support Centre (IPSC) can assist you. Call us at 1-866-522-2122.

Additional information

Find out more

Over time, to ensure your health and well-being, we may perform a review or re-assessment of your situation once you’re in the program.

Please let us know if your caregiver changes. You will need to submit a new application any time your caregiver changes.

Related programs

Caregiver Zone - Online support and resources for those who care for Veterans.

Disability Benefit - Compensation for your service-related injury or illness.

Attendance Allowance - Monthly payments if your health needs require personal care support.

Frequently asked questions

If I apply for the benefit and get declined, can I appeal?

Yes. If you are not satisfied with a decision you may apply in writing for a review. Learn more about your review and appeal options.

If the benefit is paid to my caregiver, why do I need to apply?

Since it is your health needs that require the services of a caregiver, you must apply for the benefit. However, your caregiver is required to complete and sign a section of the application. If you have granted power of attorney to someone, that person may apply on your behalf.