A dependant is someone who depends on you for help to deal with unexpected difficulties or emergencies. The law defines dependants as:
- a husband, wife or partner;
- children;
- a parent;
- any other person residing in the same household as a family member (e.g. not a tenant); and
- any person who reasonably relies on you for assistance in the event of physical or mental illness or accident (e.g. an elderly neighbour).