Financial support exists — and most families don't know about it

Many families providing care for an aging parent or loved one are leaving money on the table. Quebec has several programs designed to offset the cost of home care and support caregivers, but they require knowing where to look and applying proactively.

This article provides an overview of the main programs. See the Tax Credits and Direct Allowance articles for more detail on specific programs.

Key categories of financial support

Tax credits (provincial)

Tax Credit for Home Support of Older Persons (Revenu Québec)
This refundable tax credit offsets the cost of eligible home support services for people 70 and over. It covers services like personal care, housekeeping, and home maintenance when provided by a recognized service provider or self-employed worker. The credit can be claimed annually on the Quebec income tax return.

Tax Credit for Caregivers
A refundable tax credit for people who support a relative living at home or nearby with a serious health problem. Amounts depend on the level of care provided and the living situation.

See the Tax Credits article for details on amounts, eligibility, and how to claim.

Direct allowance programs

Programme de soutien aux proches aidants (PSPA)
Administered by L'Appui, this program provides a financial allowance to caregivers of people 65 or older with a significant loss of autonomy. The allowance is intended to pay for services that provide respite — not directly to pay the caregiver.

Chèque emploi-service (CES)
A voucher-based program administered through the CLSC that allows families to hire their own personal care workers, with the CLSC handling payroll administration. Useful when you want to direct who provides care.

Allocation directe
A program that provides direct funding to individuals who prefer to hire and manage their own care workers, rather than receiving services through the CLSC staffing model.

See the Direct Allowance Programs article for details.

Federal programs

Caregiver credit (federal income tax)
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) offers credits for caregivers, including the Canada Caregiver Credit. Eligibility depends on your income, the person's situation, and your relationship.

Employment insurance (caregiver leave)
If you need to temporarily reduce work to provide care, Employment Insurance (EI) may cover a portion of lost income. The compassionate care benefit and family caregiver benefit programs cover different situations.

Consult Service Canada or a financial advisor for federal program eligibility.