Boost Caregiver Benefit to $800

Summary#

• This bill would raise the monthly payment in Nova Scotia’s Caregiver Benefit program to $800 by January 1, 2027.

• Starting in 2028, the payment would go up each year with the cost of living, based on the Consumer Price Index (a measure of inflation) for Nova Scotia.

• The increase only happens if the Legislature approves the money in the provincial budget.

• Key changes:

  • Sets a target of $800 per month for eligible caregivers by 2027.
  • Adds automatic annual increases for inflation beginning January 1, 2028.
  • Keeps the program’s other rules the same (the bill does not change who is eligible or how to apply).
  • Requires the Legislature to fund the increase through the budget.

What it means for you#

• Caregivers currently in the program:

  • Your monthly payment would rise to $800 by January 1, 2027.
  • From 2028 on, your payment would adjust each year with inflation, so it keeps up with rising prices.
  • The bill does not change application steps or eligibility rules.
  • The raise depends on the provincial budget being approved.

• People receiving care and their families:

  • More money for your caregiver could help cover everyday needs, like food, transport, and supplies.
  • Annual inflation increases can make support more predictable from year to year.

• People considering applying:

  • The bill does not change who qualifies. Current program criteria still apply.
  • If you become eligible and are approved, you could receive the higher amount once in effect.

• Taxpayers:

  • Provincial spending on the Caregiver Benefit would go up.
  • Indexing to inflation means costs will rise automatically each year.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

• Raises direct support for unpaid or low‑paid caregivers, who help seniors and people with disabilities stay at home.
• Helps payments keep their value over time by tying them to inflation.
• May reduce pressure on long-term care and hospitals by supporting care at home.
• Provides more stable, predictable support so families can plan their budgets.
• Recognizes the economic and social value of caregiving work.

Opponents' View#

• Increases provincial costs and commits the budget to grow every year with inflation.
• May still fall short of actual caregiving costs, so the impact could be limited.
• Does not expand eligibility or address gaps for people who do not qualify under current rules.
• Depends on future budget approvals, so the promised increase is not guaranteed every year.
• Could divert funds from other health or social programs if the budget is tight.