Domestic Benefits - FAQ
- Custodial Expenses
I am attached posted in Canada, am I entitled to custodial expense (CE)?
No, while attached posted in Canada, benefits are IAW the CFTDTI. You need to be attached posted outside Canada or prohibited posted within or outside Canada (OUTCAN) to be eligible for CE.
Refs: CFTDTI 3.01(1)(ii), CFTDTI 3.01(2)(ii) and CBI 209.36 (3)
I am a single member posted prohibited in Canada, can I claim custodial expenses and how much will I receive?
Yes, the amount of CE is limited to the lesser of:
(a) actual and reasonable expenses;
(b) $9.17/day; or
(c) $275.00/month.
There is no authority for reimbursement of expenses incurred other than with a bona fide commercial business.
Ref: CBI 209.36 (5)
If I have someone living in my residence while away on prohibited posting outside Canada, do I qualify for custodial expense?
No. Custodial Expense is only for situations when the member's principal residence is left vacant.
Ref: CBI 209.36(3)(b)(iv)
I am married and prohibited posted in Canada. My spouse is unable to shovel the snow while I am gone due to medical restrictions. Can I claim custodial expense?
No, this benefit is only for members without dependants or MSC when both are away from the place of duty for service reasons at the same time and when their principal residence is vacant during the period of prohibited posting.
Refs: CBI 209.36(3)(b)(iv) and CBI 209.36(3)(c)
Can I have my neighbour look after my principle residence and pay them the custodial expense?
No, only services provided by a commercial business are eligible for reimbursement.
Ref: CBI 209.36(4)
