The Canadian government has announced a significant update to its Employment Insurance (EI) Caregiving Benefits, increasing the weekly payout to $695 starting July 2025.
This enhanced benefit aims to support caregivers who provide essential care for family members suffering from serious illness, injury, or requiring end-of-life care.
This updated benefit reflects Canada’s continued commitment to assisting working caregivers, self-employed individuals, and even seasonal fishers, easing their financial burden while they care for those in need.
Employment Insurance Caregiving Benefits 2025 – Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Post | $695/week EI Caregiving Benefits July 2025 |
| Organization | Canada Revenue Agency |
| Benefit Amount | $695 per week |
| Payment Frequency | Weekly |
| Eligible Beneficiaries | Sick individuals or their caregivers |
| Objective | To reduce financial stress while caregiving |
| Official Website | www.canada.ca |
What Are EI Caregiving Benefits?
The Employment Insurance Caregiving Benefits are financial supports provided to individuals taking time off work to care for a critically ill or injured person or someone in need of end-of-life care.
These benefits cover both adults and children, with specific provisions in place depending on the recipient’s age and medical condition.
Key highlights include:
- Up to $695/week in financial support
- Available for critically ill children under 18 and adults over 18
- Designed to support caregiving for serious medical conditions
- Available through compassionate care, family caregiver for adults, and family caregiver for children benefits
Who Is Eligible for the $695 EI Caregiving Benefit in 2025?
To qualify for this benefit starting July 2025, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
For Insured Employees:
- Must have completed at least 600 insured work hours in the last 52 weeks
- Weekly earnings must have dropped by at least 40% for one or more weeks
For Self-Employed Individuals:
- Must have been registered with the Canada Employment Insurance Commission (CEIC) for at least 12 months
- Annual income should be $8,826 or more
- Business income must have dropped by at least 40% for one week
For Fishers:
- Must have earned at least $3,760 as self-employed fishers
EI Caregiving Benefit Payment Details – July 2025
The weekly benefit amount has increased to $695 from July 2025. Payments are calculated based on 55% of average insurable weekly earnings, meaning the exact amount may vary slightly depending on individual employment history.
Example Calculation:
If your average insurable weekly income is $1,263.64, your benefit will be 55% of that amount, which equals $695/week – the new maximum.
How to Apply for EI Caregiving Benefits – Step-by-Step (July 2025)
Applicants can apply anytime throughout the year, following these steps:
- Visit the official website: www.canada.ca
- Navigate to the EI Benefits section
- Click on “Apply for EI Caregiving Benefits”
- Complete the application form with personal, employment, and caregiving details
- Upload supporting documents, such as medical certificates
- Submit your application and wait for a confirmation
All applications are processed online, with status updates provided via your registered account.
Why This Update Matters
With the cost of living and medical care on the rise, the increase to $695/week gives much-needed financial relief to those who leave their jobs temporarily to care for a loved one.
This benefit also supports mental well-being, allowing caregivers to focus fully on their responsibilities without financial strain.
The $695/week EI caregiving benefits, effective July 2025, offer timely and meaningful support to Canadians caring for critically ill family members.
The government’s updated policy ensures that eligible caregivers receive enhanced weekly payments, reducing economic pressure and promoting compassionate care across the country.
FAQs
Who can apply for the EI Caregiving Benefit in July 2025?
Eligible applicants include insured employees, self-employed individuals, and fishers who are caring for someone critically ill or injured.
What is the new weekly payment amount starting July 2025?
The updated weekly EI caregiving benefit is $695, calculated at 55% of your average insurable earnings.
How do I apply for the caregiving benefit?
Visit www.canada.ca, access the EI section, fill out the online application, upload required documents, and submit your request.