$1,700 GIS Increase Arriving This April: The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a critical lifeline for low-income seniors in Canada, offering monthly financial assistance to help them manage daily expenses such as housing, food, and transportation. Recently, there has been a flurry of rumors about a $1,700 GIS increase arriving in April 2025, which has sparked significant public interest. Canadians are now questioning whether this increase is real, how it affects their payments, and what steps they need to take to qualify.
To clear up the confusion: As of March 2025, there is no official confirmation of a permanent $1,700 monthly increase to GIS. However, some eligible seniors did receive a one-time double payment in March 2025 — a combination of regular benefits and a special top-up that added up to approximately $1,700. This was not a recurring adjustment, and the April 2025 GIS payment is expected to return to the regular monthly amount. The official payment date remains scheduled for April 28, 2025.
$1,700 GIS Increase Arriving This April
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| GIS Program | Monthly, non-taxable benefit for low-income seniors |
| $1,700 GIS Increase Rumor | No confirmed increase; March 2025 double payment reported |
| Actual April 2025 Payment | Regular GIS/OAS payments resume |
| Next GIS/OAS Payment Date | April 28, 2025 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Based on OAS status, income, and Canadian residency |
| Tax Treatment | GIS is non-taxable; OAS is taxable |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or cheque via Service Canada |
| Official Source | Canada.ca – GIS Overview |
The $1,700 GIS increase making headlines is not a recurring payment — it was part of a one-time March 2025 bonus. If you’re a low-income senior eligible for GIS, your regular monthly benefit will continue on April 28, 2025, with no changes announced so far.
To maximize your entitlements, ensure you file your taxes on time, verify your personal details in My Service Canada Account, and monitor official announcements for updates on future top-ups or increases.
Don’t rely on rumors. Stay informed and take control of your financial well-being in retirement.
What Is the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a non-taxable monthly payment available to low-income seniors who already receive Old Age Security (OAS). It was created to reduce poverty among older Canadians by topping up their monthly OAS with additional financial assistance.
GIS is intended for individuals who have little to no other income in retirement. The program is income-tested, which means benefits are adjusted depending on your reported income from the previous tax year. If your income rises, your GIS amount may drop or cease altogether.
GIS is reviewed annually, with adjustments made in July based on your most recent tax return. It’s an essential part of Canada’s social safety net for retirees without workplace pensions or significant savings.
Understanding the $1,700 Payment Rumors
Online articles and social media posts have recently circulated claims of a $1,700 GIS increase in April 2025. While the numbers are not fabricated, they’ve been taken out of context. Here’s what really happened:
- In March 2025, some seniors received double GIS and OAS payments, including a $1,700 OAS-related payment and a $650 top-up, totaling a large deposit.
- This was a one-time payment, part of a temporary inflation-relief initiative.
- There is no official statement from the CRA or Service Canada confirming a $1,700 recurring GIS payment starting in April.
The government has not proposed or implemented a permanent GIS increase to match that one-time amount.
When Is the Next GIS Payment Date?
The next Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) payment will be deposited or mailed on April 28, 2025. GIS and OAS are typically issued together in a single monthly transaction.
2025 GIS/OAS Payment Dates:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 29, 2025 |
| February | February 26, 2025 |
| March | March 27, 2025 |
| April | April 28, 2025 |
| May | May 28, 2025 |
| June | June 26, 2025 |
| July | July 29, 2025 |
| August | August 27, 2025 |
| September | September 25, 2025 |
| October | October 29, 2025 |
| November | November 26, 2025 |
| December | December 22, 2025 |
📢 Make sure your banking and address details are up-to-date in your My Service Canada Account to avoid payment delays.
GIS Eligibility Criteria: Are You Qualified?
To qualify for GIS, you must:
- Be 65 years or older
- Receive the Old Age Security (OAS) pension
- Have annual income below specific thresholds
- Be living in Canada
- File your annual tax return to ensure automatic GIS eligibility review
2025 GIS Income Thresholds:
- Single, widowed, or divorced: Less than $21,456 annually
- Married/Common-law (spouse receives OAS): Less than $28,320 combined
- Married/Common-law (spouse does not receive OAS): Less than $51,408 combined
📝 You must file your taxes each year for the CRA to determine your eligibility automatically.
How Much GIS Can You Receive in 2025?
The GIS payment varies depending on income and marital status. As of 2025:
- The maximum monthly GIS for a single senior: $1,065.47
- The maximum OAS amount: $713.34
- Total monthly benefit: Up to $1,778.81
If your income increases (such as from a pension, RRSP withdrawal, or part-time work), your GIS amount could decrease.
GIS is reviewed quarterly and adjusted as needed based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). However, no increase has been scheduled for April–June 2025.
Use the OAS and GIS calculator to estimate your benefit.
$1,700 GIS Increase Arriving This April Apply for GIS Guide
If you’re not automatically enrolled, you can apply manually:
Online:
- Log into My Service Canada Account
- Select “Apply for GIS”
- Fill out your personal and income information
- Submit documents as required
By Mail:
- Download the GIS application form (ISP3025E)
- Include income slips (T4s, pension statements, etc.)
- Mail it to your nearest Service Canada office
For help, contact Service Canada at 1-800-277-9914.
Real-Life Scenarios: Who Benefits and How
Linda (71, Single, No Other Income)
Linda receives only OAS and qualifies for the maximum GIS. She gets $1,778.81 monthly, which she uses for rent and groceries.
George and Marta (Couple with Mixed Income)
George receives OAS, but Marta has a small workplace pension. Their combined income is $39,000. George receives a partial GIS, helping them meet utility and medical costs.
Ayesha (67, Delaying OAS)
Ayesha turned 65 in 2023 but chose to delay OAS for a higher payout. She won’t qualify for GIS until she starts receiving OAS. Her plan is to begin at age 70.
What to Expect in the Future
- GIS amounts will be reviewed again in July 2025 based on your 2024 income
- A future increase may be introduced through federal budgets, pending economic conditions
- Any one-time payments (like in March 2025) will be clearly announced via Canada.ca
📈 Keep an eye on inflation-related policy updates and budget announcements to stay informed.
FAQs On $1,700 GIS Increase Arriving This April
Q1: Is there a $1,700 GIS increase coming in April 2025?
A: No. Some seniors received a one-time payment in March, but April payments will return to normal.
Q2: Can GIS be received outside of Canada?
A: In most cases, no. GIS is only available while living in Canada, with few exceptions.
Q3: Is GIS counted as taxable income?
A: No. GIS is non-taxable and does not impact your income tax bill.
Q4: What if I forget to file my taxes?
A: You risk losing your GIS until your return is filed. Filing late may result in missed payments.
Q5: Can GIS be combined with other benefits?
A: Yes. GIS can be received along with OAS, CPP, and provincial/territorial supplements.
