Family caregivers in Yukon will be able to get tax credits and the government is putting more money into helping seniors stay in their own homes.

Politicians in the territory’s legislature voted unanimously to support the plan last week.

Effective this year, people who care for a family member with a disability or for seniors, will qualitfy for the tax break. Premier Darrell Pasloski said the credit will mean caregivers will be able to keep a little more of their money.

"This tax credit will provide tax relief for caregivers of all types of infirm, dependent relatives, including, for the first time, spouses, common-law partners and minor children," he said.

The government will also give more funding to help people modify their homes to make them more accessible. That could mean things like wheelchair ramps or other specialized equipment.

Yukon Justice Minister Mike Nixon said the help will be appreciated by families like his own. He has a son with autism and said it isn’t a job many outside the family would apply for.

"On call and available for work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. No holidays, no pay," said Nixon.