Common Questions
I’m taking care of a relative’s child. What kind of benefits can I get?Last reviewed in March 2023 by the Clicklaw Editors
For those taking care of a relative's child at the request of the child's parent(s) and the parent(s) are unable to pay for their child's basic needs, there may be some support available to you.
Good starting points include:
- The Extended Family Program, from the Ministry of Children and Family Development, describes services and financial supports if you are taking care of a relative's child.
- Child protection, from Legal Aid BC, has a section that contains information for grandparents or other relatives raising a relative's child. It explains the kinds of government benefits they may get and under what circumstances. It also provides links to other sites that explain how and where to apply for these benefits.
- If you are a grandparent raising your grandchild, also see I am a grandparent raising my grandchild. What are my rights and what kind of benefits can I receive?
Need more help?
- Kinship Care Help Line, from the Parent Support Services Society of BC, provides support, advocacy, and information to grandparents and other relatives raising a family member’s child.
- Find an Advocate, from PovNet, provides a list of community advocates who may be able to provide information or assistance regarding government benefits.
- Find more help near you on Clicklaw HelpMap.
See our related common questions:
- See all common questions about family law
- See all common questions about pensions, benefits & welfare
- tags
- welfare, child in the home of a relative benefit, raising a relative's child
