Direct answer
Quick AnswerEmployment Insurance provides Family Caregiver Benefit for Children, offering up to 35 weeks of benefits at 55% of insured earnings (maximum $668/week in 2025) for parents caring for a critically ill or injured child under 18. While autism itself may not qualify, autistic children experiencing medical crises, co-occurring conditions requiring intensive care, or post-surgical recovery may be eligible with physician certification.
Start with the short answer, then reveal deeper context where helpful.
The EI Family Caregiver Benefit for Children is available when a child under 18 has a critical illness or injury requiring the care and support of a parent. The physician must certify that the child's life is at risk or that the condition requires constant parental care.
The EI Family Caregiver Benefit for Children is available when a child under 18 has a critical illness or injury requiring the care and support of a parent. The physician must certify that the child's life is at risk or that the condition requires constant parental care.
Autism alone typically does not meet the "critical illness" threshold. However, co-occurring conditions common in autism — epilepsy, severe feeding disorders requiring tube feeding, or acute mental health crises — may qualify. Discuss with your child's physician.
Service Canada
EI Family Caregiver Benefit for Children (2025)
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