Seniors Could Receive $500 to $1,200 Monthly – Check If You’re Eligible

If you’re 65 or older and living on a modest income, you might be missing out on a valuable benefit: the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). This monthly, non-taxable payment from the Government of Canada can provide between $500 and $1,200 per month to seniors who already receive Old Age Security (OAS). Yet, thousands of Canadians either don’t know about it or assume they don’t qualify.

With the cost of living rising, every dollar counts—especially in retirement. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to check your eligibility and apply.

Overview

The GIS is one of the most important supports available to low-income seniors. It exists to help cover basic expenses like food, utilities, rent, and medications—giving you more financial breathing room every month.

Eligibility

To qualify for the GIS, you need to meet the following conditions:

• Be 65 years or older
• Live in Canada
• Receive the Old Age Security (OAS) pension
• Have a total annual income below a set limit

As of 2025, here are the income thresholds:

These thresholds do not include your OAS or GIS income but do count money from CPP, RRSPs, pensions, and investments.

Many people wrongly assume they earn too much to qualify, but it’s always worth checking—some income types are excluded or partially exempt.

Amounts

The amount you receive varies depending on your relationship status and income. Here are the maximum monthly GIS payments for the April to June 2025 period:

These payments are updated quarterly to match inflation, so your support keeps pace with rising costs.

Examples

Let’s look at how GIS helps in real life:

Linda, age 70, is single and lives in British Columbia. Her only income is $15,000 from CPP and a small pension. She qualifies for OAS and receives an additional $1,000 per month through GIS, giving her a solid monthly income boost.

George and Marie, a retired couple from Quebec, make a combined $25,000 a year. Both get OAS and also qualify for $600/month each in GIS. This extra $1,200 a month helps with bills, heating, and food costs.

Applying

Some seniors are automatically enrolled when they turn 65, but others must apply manually—especially if they did not file taxes or recently moved to Canada.

Option 1

• Log into your My Service Canada Account
• Complete the GIS section of the OAS application
• Provide accurate income details

Option 2

• Download Form ISP3025 from Canada.ca
• Fill it out and send it to the address listed on the form

Tip: Apply at least six months before your 65th birthday to avoid delays. After you apply, you’ll receive a letter confirming how much you’ll receive and when payments start.

If denied, you have the right to request a reconsideration.

Extras

GIS isn’t the only benefit available to older Canadians. If you’re receiving GIS, you may also be eligible for:

• OAS Pension: $713.34/month (or $784.67 if over 75)
• Allowance: For low-income spouses aged 60 to 64
• Allowance for the Survivor: For widowed individuals aged 60 to 64
• CPP: Monthly payments based on your contributions
• Provincial Programs: Subsidies for rent, prescriptions, dental care
• One-Time Top-Ups: Like the $650 payment in March 2025 to offset inflation

These combined supports can make a significant difference in your quality of life during retirement.

FAQs