Home care is paid for in several ways in New Brunswick, and many families use a mix. This guide explains the main options in plain language. Program rules change, so always confirm the details with the program itself.
Department of Social Development: Long-Term Care Program
Social Development assesses adults who need ongoing help to live safely at home. The assessment looks at care needs, and a separate financial assessment determines how much the client contributes. If approved, the department may pay part or all of the cost of home support services.
How to start
- Contact Social Development and ask for a long-term care assessment.
- A social worker meets with the person needing care to assess their needs.
- A financial assessment is completed based on income.
- If eligible, a care plan is set up with an approved home support provider.
Ask your Social Development case manager whether your plan can be delivered by the provider you prefer.
Disability Support Program (ages 19 to 64)
Adults aged 19 to 64 with a long-term disability can apply to Social Development's Disability Support Program. It can help pay for personal support in and outside the home, respite, life skills training and community participation. A financial assessment decides how much you contribute, and you can either self-manage your plan or work with a social worker.
Family Supports for Children with Disabilities (under 19)
Families raising a child with a disability that significantly limits daily activities can apply for this program. It can help pay for respite, home support and family support workers. Eligibility is not based on family income or a particular diagnosis, but you will need a letter from a professional describing your child's disability. Call your regional Social Development office to apply.
Veterans Affairs Canada: Veterans Independence Program
The Veterans Independence Program helps eligible veterans stay at home by paying for services such as personal care, housekeeping and grounds maintenance. Some surviving spouses and primary caregivers may also qualify. Contact Veterans Affairs Canada to check eligibility.
The Extra-Mural Program
New Brunswick's Extra-Mural Program provides home health care such as nursing, physiotherapy and occupational therapy, at no cost to patients, usually by referral. It does not normally cover ongoing personal care or housekeeping, which is where a home support provider like Bayfern can fill the gap.
Private and workplace insurance
Check health benefits through work or retirement, and any long-term care insurance policy. Some cover home care, respite or care after surgery. Keep your invoices and ask the insurer what documentation they need.
Tax credits
- Medical expense tax credit: fees for attendant care may qualify as eligible medical expenses.
- Disability tax credit: people who qualify may be able to claim more attendant care costs.
- Canada caregiver credit: family members supporting a dependant with an impairment may be able to claim it.
Tax rules have specific conditions. Talk to an accountant or the Canada Revenue Agency before claiming.
Paying privately
Many families pay for some care themselves, often to add hours on top of a funded plan. At Bayfern, private care is billed by the hour with a written quote and no contract. See costs and funding.