Federal family, children & caregiving
Choose a specific reviewed route below. Requirements depend on the service and location; these guides link to the current instructions from the issuing authority.
Apply for EI caregiving benefits
Apply online when you stop working or your earnings fall to provide eligible care. Supporting medical documents can follow the application. The family-caregiver and compassionate-care routes require different medical certificates.
Read the guideApply for EI maternity and parental benefits
Choose the applicable maternity or parental benefits, then apply online promptly after stopping work. Each parent sharing parental benefits files their own application and must use the same standard or extended option.
Read the guide
Use the responsible authority
Each guide identifies its official sources and review date. Complete applications on the government website. This independent guide does not confirm eligibility or submit requests.