Seniors Could Receive $2,700 From CRA: If you’re a Canadian senior or planning ahead for retirement, you may be eligible for up to $2,700 in payments from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) this April. This financial boost, made up of Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), offers crucial monthly support to older Canadians — especially those living on a fixed income or with limited retirement savings.
These government programs are part of Canada’s broader safety net designed to reduce poverty among seniors and ensure a more comfortable, secure retirement. Many seniors are surprised to learn just how much support is available — and how accessible it can be with the right knowledge and preparation. In this article, we break down what OAS and GIS are, who qualifies, and how you can receive these benefits in 2025 and beyond.
Seniors Could Receive $2,700 From CRA
| Program/Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Potential Amount (April) | Up to $2,700 |
| Old Age Security (OAS) | Up to $800.44/month (age 75+), $727.67/month (age 65-74) |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Up to $1,086.88/month for single low-income seniors |
| Eligibility | Age 65+, Canadian residency and income-tested |
| CRA Payment Date (April 2025) | April 28, 2025 |
| Official Resource | Canada.ca – OAS & GIS |
The CRA’s $2,700 payment potential in April 2025 is more than just a figure — it represents a crucial lifeline for countless seniors across Canada. These benefits are designed to ensure dignity, stability, and independence in retirement, especially for low-income seniors.
If you’re approaching age 65 or already there, take the time to learn about OAS and GIS, verify your eligibility, and apply. The process is simpler than you might think, and the rewards are both financial and peace-of-mind related.
Always check the official Government of Canada website for the most current information and application forms.
What Are OAS and GIS?
The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a monthly payment funded by general tax revenues, not individual contributions. It is available to most Canadians aged 65 or older, and it plays a foundational role in Canada’s retirement income system. What makes OAS especially unique is that you don’t need to have worked in Canada to qualify — it’s based largely on residency, not employment history.
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is an additional, non-taxable monthly benefit available to low-income seniors who already receive OAS. This program exists to support vulnerable seniors and help cover the rising costs of basic living, such as food, transportation, and housing.
Together, OAS and GIS can provide a vital financial cushion, helping older Canadians maintain their independence and quality of life. Seniors who qualify for both programs may receive over $2,700 in April 2025, especially those in the 75+ age bracket.
How These Benefits Work Together
The two benefits work in tandem to provide layered support:
- OAS is the base amount.
- GIS is added on top for those with low or no income.
By combining these programs, the Canadian government ensures that its senior citizens aren’t left behind due to a lack of private savings or work history.
Who Is Eligible?
Old Age Security (OAS)
To be eligible for OAS, you must:
- Be 65 years of age or older.
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident at the time your application is approved.
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18 (for partial payments).
You may be eligible for full OAS payments if you’ve lived in Canada for 40 years or more after the age of 18. If you lived and worked outside Canada but contributed to social security programs in other countries, you might still qualify under international social security agreements.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
To be eligible for GIS, you must:
- Be receiving Old Age Security (OAS).
- Have low income, based on your previous year’s income tax return.
GIS Income Thresholds (2024)
- Single seniors: Income must be below $21,456.
- Married/common-law couples: Combined income must be below $28,320.
Your exact GIS amount will depend on your reported income. The lower your income, the higher your supplement. The amount is adjusted quarterly to reflect inflation and cost-of-living changes.
Example Scenario:
Let’s say Maria is 76 years old, lives alone, and has no pension or RRSP income. She receives OAS and GIS, totaling around $1,887.32/month. Over three months — from April to June 2025 — she could receive more than $5,660 in financial support.
How Much Could You Get in April 2025?
Here’s a breakdown of maximum monthly benefits available in early 2025:
- OAS (Age 75+): $800.44
- OAS (Age 65–74): $727.67
- GIS (Single Senior, Low Income): $1,086.88
Combined Total:
- Seniors aged 75 and over could receive up to $1,887.32/month.
- Seniors aged 65–74 could receive up to $1,814.55/month.
That means a qualifying individual could receive $2,700 in April, depending on how payments align with income levels and age.
Factors That May Affect Your Payment:
- Whether you’re married or single
- Total income for the previous tax year
- Your current age bracket
- Where you live (some provinces offer additional supplements)
Seniors Could Receive $2,700 From CRA Apply for OAS and GIS
1. Automatic Enrollment
If you’re eligible for OAS, you may be automatically enrolled by Service Canada. If this applies to you, you’ll receive a letter a few months before your 65th birthday.
2. Manual Application Process
If you do not receive this letter, you’ll need to apply. There are two ways to do this:
- Online via your My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
- Paper application using Form ISP-3550
3. Applying for GIS
GIS requires a separate application. Your income information from your previous tax return is used to calculate your eligibility and payment.
Pro tip: Always file your income taxes on time — even if you have no income — to ensure your GIS doesn’t get interrupted.
Application Timeline:
You can apply for OAS up to 11 months before your 65th birthday. GIS applications should be submitted shortly after your OAS approval.
When Will You Receive Payment?
OAS and GIS are paid monthly. For 2025, the CRA has set April 28, 2025 as the official payment date.
Upcoming Payment Dates:
- May 28, 2025
- June 26, 2025
- July 29, 2025
- August 27, 2025
To avoid postal delays and receive funds promptly, sign up for direct deposit through your CRA My Account.
Additional Supports for Seniors
If you’re receiving OAS and GIS, you may qualify for other helpful government programs, including:
1. Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
This is a monthly retirement pension based on contributions you made during your working years. Unlike OAS, CPP is contributory — meaning you and your employer paid into it.
2. Allowance and Allowance for the Survivor
Available to low-income individuals aged 60 to 64 who are married to or the survivors of OAS/GIS recipients.
3. Provincial and Territorial Supplements
Many provinces offer their own senior support programs:
- Ontario GAINS: Up to $83/month in addition to federal GIS.
- BC Senior’s Supplement: Up to $99.30/month for eligible residents.
- Alberta Seniors Benefit: Income-based monthly support.
Use the Benefits Finder Tool to discover local programs tailored to your situation.
4. Medical and Housing Benefits
You may also be eligible for:
- Dental and prescription coverage
- Home Adaptation Grants
- Rent subsidies and property tax deferrals
FAQs On Seniors Could Receive $2,700 From CRA
Can I still receive GIS if I work part-time?
Yes, but your income affects your eligibility. Any additional income may reduce the GIS amount you receive.
Is OAS clawed back if I earn too much?
Yes. If your net income exceeds $90,997 (2024 threshold), your OAS payments may be partially or fully recovered through the OAS clawback (also called the recovery tax).
Can non-residents receive OAS?
Yes, but only under strict conditions. You must have lived in Canada for at least 20 years after turning 18 or be covered under an international social security agreement.
Are both OAS and GIS taxable?
OAS is taxable income, while GIS is non-taxable.
Can I appeal if my application is denied?
Yes. If you disagree with a decision, you can request a reconsideration within 90 days. Instructions are included in the Service Canada letter you receive.
