Low-Income Seniors: In 2025, low-income Canadian seniors could receive a monthly benefit of up to $1,580 or more by combining the Old Age Security (OAS) pension with the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). For many older Canadians, these federal payments provide essential support to cover everyday living costs such as rent, food, and medicine—especially amid rising inflation.
If you’re approaching retirement or assisting an elderly loved one, understanding how OAS and GIS work together can help ensure you’re not leaving money on the table. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about eligibility, payment amounts, how to apply, and important dates to keep in mind.
Low-Income Seniors Could Get $1,580 Extra in OAS
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Combined Payment | Up to $1,814.55 (age 65–74), or $1,887.32 (age 75+) |
| OAS Amount (65–74) | $727.67/month |
| OAS Amount (75+) | $800.44/month |
| Maximum GIS (single) | $1,086.88/month |
| GIS Income Threshold (single) | Less than $22,056/year |
| Payment Dates (Apr–Jun 2025) | April 28, May 28, June 26 |
| Official Site | canada.ca – OAS and GIS Info |
With the rising cost of living, federal programs like OAS and GIS are lifelines for many seniors in Canada. While the combined benefit of $1,580/month is often cited, some may receive up to $1,887.32 depending on their age and income. By understanding eligibility, staying on top of paperwork, and filing taxes on time, you or your loved ones can make the most of this crucial support system.
What Is the Old Age Security (OAS) Pension?
The Old Age Security pension is a monthly payment offered by the federal government to eligible seniors aged 65 or older. It’s one of Canada’s core retirement income programs and doesn’t require any previous work history to qualify.
OAS Eligibility Criteria
To receive OAS, you must:
- Be 65 years or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18 (20 years if applying from outside Canada)
More information is available directly from the Government of Canada’s OAS eligibility page.
What Is the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is an additional monthly benefit paid on top of your OAS pension. It’s designed for low-income seniors living in Canada who meet specific income thresholds.
GIS Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for GIS, you must:
- Be 65 years or older
- Receive the OAS pension
- Live in Canada
- Meet income limits based on your marital status:
| Status | Annual Income Must Be Less Than |
|---|---|
| Single | $22,056 |
| Married/Common-law, both receiving OAS | $29,136 (combined) |
| Married/Common-law, one receiving OAS | $52,848 (combined) |
| Married/Common-law, spouse receives Allowance | $40,800 (combined) |
More eligibility info is available on the GIS eligibility page.
Payment Amounts – How Much Can You Get?
Payment rates are reviewed quarterly and can vary depending on inflation and cost of living changes. Here’s what eligible seniors can expect between April and June 2025:
Old Age Security (OAS) Payment
- Ages 65–74: $727.67/month
- Ages 75 and older: $800.44/month
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) Payment
- Single seniors: Up to $1,086.88/month
- Married/Common-law (both receiving OAS): Up to $654.23/month each
- Married/Common-law (only one receiving OAS): Up to $1,086.88/month
- Spouse receiving Allowance: Up to $654.23/month
Example: Maximum Monthly Benefit
If you are a single senior over 75 with no additional income, you could receive:
- $800.44 (OAS) + $1,086.88 (GIS) = $1,887.32/month
This exceeds the commonly referenced $1,580/month figure and reflects the maximum possible benefit for those with the lowest income.
Payment Dates – When Will You Receive the Money?
OAS and GIS benefits are typically paid on the third-to-last business day of each month.
Upcoming OAS and GIS Payment Dates (2025)
- April: April 28
- May: May 28
- June: June 26
It’s important to keep track of these dates, especially if you rely on direct deposit or budget monthly expenses.
Low-Income Seniors: How to Apply for OAS and GIS?
OAS Enrollment
Many seniors are automatically enrolled in OAS. If you are not, you will receive a letter from Service Canada prompting you to apply. You can apply:
- Online through your My Service Canada Account
- By mail using a printed application form
- In-person at a Service Canada office
GIS Application
GIS is not automatic. You must:
- Be receiving OAS
- File your annual income tax return (your GIS eligibility is based on your income from the previous year)
Failing to file taxes could lead to loss of GIS payments, so make this a top priority.
Apply through the official Service Canada portal or by contacting them directly.
Tips to Maximize Your OAS and GIS Benefits
- File Taxes On Time Every Year
Even if you have no income, filing your return ensures you stay eligible for GIS and other income-tested benefits. - Monitor Income Thresholds
Small increases in income—like withdrawing RRSPs or earning part-time income—can reduce GIS payments. - Delay OAS for Higher Payments
If you defer your OAS past age 65, you can increase your pension by 0.6% per month (up to 36% at age 70). However, this also delays GIS eligibility. - Report Life Changes
Inform Service Canada about any change in marital status or residency, as it could impact your benefit level.
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FAQs on Low-Income Seniors
1. What if I didn’t get automatically enrolled in OAS?
If you didn’t receive an automatic enrollment letter from Service Canada, you’ll need to apply manually online or through a paper application.
2. Can I still receive GIS if I live outside Canada?
No. GIS is only payable to those currently residing in Canada.
3. Is GIS taxable?
No, GIS payments are not taxable income, which is a big advantage for low-income seniors.
4. Will my GIS decrease if I work part-time?
Possibly. GIS is income-tested, so any income you earn could reduce your GIS amount. However, there’s an exemption for part-time earnings—up to $5,000/year is not counted.
5. How often are OAS and GIS amounts updated?
The federal government adjusts OAS and GIS amounts every quarter (January, April, July, and October) based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
