In Canada, many seniors rely on government benefits to support their income in retirement, including the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) or Quebec Pension Plan (QPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and for low-income individuals, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). This supplement ensures that seniors with limited financial resources receive extra help to cover their living costs.
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However, the GIS comes with specific eligibility criteria and varying payment dates. If you’re a senior or about to reach that stage, understanding these details could significantly impact your monthly income. Let’s break down how the GIS works, its eligibility requirements, and when you can expect those crucial payments.
What is Guaranteed Income Supplement?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly benefit for Canadian seniors aged 65 or older who receive OAS but need additional financial assistance due to a low income. It is designed to top up the income of individuals who meet the program’s financial requirements. Importantly, GIS is non-taxable, meaning it does not count as part of your taxable income, but it is essential to report it on your annual income tax return.
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Guaranteed Income Supplement Eligibility Criteria
Before you can start receiving Guaranteed Income Supplement payments, you must meet a few key conditions:
- Age: You must be 65 or older.
- OAS Eligibility: You must already be receiving OAS.
- Income: Your household income must fall under specific thresholds based on your marital status.
- Canadian Residency: You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, with the exception of specific rules for sponsored immigrants.
- Living Abroad: If you live outside Canada, you can only be absent for up to 6 months per year to maintain eligibility.
Income Thresholds for Guaranteed Income Supplement
To qualify for GIS, your income must not exceed a certain level. These thresholds vary depending on whether you’re single, married, or in a common-law relationship, and whether your spouse also receives OAS or GIS. Here’s a breakdown of the maximum allowable income:
| Marital Status | Income Threshold |
|---|---|
| Single, Widowed, or Divorced | Must earn less than $22,056 annually |
| Spouse/Common-law (receives full OAS) | Combined income must be less than $29,136 |
| Spouse/Common-law (does not receive OAS) | Combined income must be less than $52,848 |
| Spouse/Common-law (receives GIS) | Combined income must be less than $40,800 |
These income limits are crucial for determining your eligibility for GIS.
Guaranteed Income Supplement Payment Amounts
The amount you can receive depends on your income and marital status. Below are the maximum monthly GIS amounts:
| Marital Status | Maximum GIS Payment |
|---|---|
| Single, Widowed, or Divorced | Up to $1,086.88 |
| Spouse/Common-law (receives full OAS) | Up to $654.23 |
| Spouse/Common-law (receives GIS) | Up to $654.23 |
| Spouse/Common-law (does not receive OAS) | Up to $1,086.88 |
These amounts reflect the GIS payments from January to March. Keep in mind that GIS amounts are reviewed quarterly—January, April, July, and October—to adjust for changes in the cost of living. If the Consumer Price Index indicates a cost-of-living increase, your GIS may increase as well.
2025 Guaranteed Income Supplement Payment Dates
Guaranteed Income Supplement payments are typically issued on the same dates each month, but the exact date can vary year to year. Here are the GIS payment dates for 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 29 |
| February | February 26 |
| March | March 27 |
| April | April 28 |
| May | May 28 |
| June | June 26 |
| July | July 29 |
| August | August 27 |
| September | September 25 |
| October | October 29 |
| November | November 26 |
| December | December 22 |
If you’re signed up for direct deposit, expect the money to hit your account around these dates. If you’re not enrolled for direct deposit, you’ll receive a cheque, which could take up to 10 business days to reach you.
How to Apply for Guaranteed Income Supplement
In most cases, GIS is automatically granted when you start receiving your OAS benefits. However, certain individuals may need to apply for GIS separately. To apply, you can:
- Online: Use your My Service Canada Account to apply or manage your GIS benefits.
- Paper Application: Complete a paper application form available through Service Canada and include required personal information like your Social Insurance Number (SIN).
If you qualify, you’ll receive a letter from Service Canada confirming your enrollment, and you’ll start receiving your GIS payments either in the same month as your OAS or as indicated in your letter.
Guaranteed Income Supplement and Your Tax Return
Although GIS payments are not taxed, you still need to report them on your annual tax return. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will send you a T4 (OAS) form that details the amount of GIS you’ve received. Make sure to include this information when filing your taxes to ensure you’re accurately reporting all government benefits.
Survivor Benefits: Allowance for the Survivor
GIS also offers a special benefit for individuals who have lost their spouse or common-law partner, known as the Allowance for the Survivor. To qualify for this benefit, you must:
- Be aged 60 to 64.
- Have a low income.
- Be a resident of Canada.
- Not have remarried or entered into a new common-law relationship since your spouse’s death.
How Guaranteed Income Supplement Helps Low-Income Seniors
GIS is an essential lifeline for low-income seniors who rely on government pensions as their primary source of income. While most people qualify for OAS and may receive CPP or QPP benefits, GIS ensures that individuals with minimal income can still maintain a basic standard of living.
As a senior in Canada, GIS can provide critical financial assistance if your income is insufficient to meet living expenses. If you’re eligible for GIS, you can expect regular monthly payments to boost your financial security. Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, keep your income within the required thresholds, and stay informed about payment dates to make the most of this valuable government support.
Whether you’re new to GIS or need to check your current status, remember that Service Canada is available to assist with any questions or updates related to your benefits.