The family caregiver credit helps Canadians caring for dependants with mental or physical impairments.

It offers a 15% non-refundable credit on an amount of $2,000, and was introduced in the 2011 federal budget. It can be claimed if clients are responsible for impaired spouses, common-law partners or minor children.

Specifically, the disability must be prolonged and indefinite. The child or partner must depend on someone to attend to all personal needs and care required of someone their age.

To prove the validity of their claims, clients may be asked to provide a signed statement from a medical doctor that provides information on the nature, commencement, and duration of the dependant’s impairment.

Also, make sure to tell them they can claim the amount for more than one eligible dependant.

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