The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly, non-taxable benefit for seniors aged 65 or older who are receiving the Old Age Security (OAS) pension and who have low income. It is designed to provide extra income support on top of the OAS pension.
Why the GIS Matters for Seniors
For many seniors, especially those with limited savings or minimal pension income, the GIS can make a significant difference. Because it is non-taxable, every dollar counts more.
By getting GIS in addition to OAS, eligible seniors can boost their monthly income, helping with expenses like rent, utilities, groceries and health-care costs.
Do You Qualify for GIS?
Here are the main eligibility criteria:
- You must be 65 years old or older.
- You must live in Canada.
- You must be receiving the OAS pension.
- Your annual income (or combined income if you’re married/common-law) must be below certain thresholds.
- If you have a spouse or common-law partner, their income and whether they receive OAS or another benefit will affect eligibility.
- You may automatically be enrolled if Service Canada has all your information. In other cases you will need to apply.
How Much Could You Receive?
Here’s a table summarising the current thresholds and possible maximum monthly payments for GIS:
| Situation | Annual income threshold | Maximum monthly GIS payment* |
|---|---|---|
| Single, widowed or divorced | Less than ~$22,440 | Up to ~$1,105.43 |
| Couple, spouse/common-law receives full OAS pension | Combined income less than ~$29,616 | Up to ~$665.41 |
| Couple, spouse/common-law receives the Allowance | Combined income less than ~$41,472 | Up to ~$665.41 |
| Couple, spouse/common-law does not receive OAS pension or Allowance | Combined income less than ~$53,808 | Up to ~$1,105.43 |
* These are maximum amounts. Your actual payment will depend on your income and other factors.
How to Apply for GIS
Here’s how the process works:
- If you are already receiving OAS and Service Canada has your full income and residency information, you may be automatically enrolled for GIS.
- If not automatic, you must apply manually—either online (via your My Service Canada account) or via a paper form.
- You must file your yearly tax return, even if your income is very low or zero. This allows your eligibility and payment amount to be computed.
- Set up direct deposit so you receive your payments reliably and on time.
- If your income changes, your GIS amount may go up or down — you must keep your information current.
While You Are Receiving GIS: Important Facts
- Your GIS payment may change if your income rises or drops. If your income goes above the threshold, your benefit may decrease or stop.
- If you move outside Canada for more than six months, you might lose GIS eligibility (though OAS may still be impacted by international agreements).
- Income from sources like private pensions, the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), RRSP withdrawals, investment income and rentals counts toward your income when determining GIS.
- Because GIS is non-taxable, it does not add to your taxable income.
- Keep Service Canada informed of changes (address, marital status, banking, partner’s status, etc).
Summary of Key Details
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age requirement | 65 or older |
| Residency | Lives in Canada |
| Must receive | OAS pension |
| Income threshold (single) | ~Under ~$22,440/year |
| Income threshold (couple) | Varies up to ~$53,808/year depending on partner’s status |
| Maximum monthly payment (single) | Up to ~$1,105.43 |
| Maximum monthly payment (couple) | Up to ~$665.41 in many cases |
| Tax status | Non-taxable |
| Application | Often automatic, else manual application needed |
| Payment review | Income reviewed annually/quarterly, amount may adjust |
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a valuable benefit for low-income seniors, offering additional monthly income to supplement the OAS pension.
For eligible individuals age 65 or older with limited income, GIS can boost retirement security and help manage everyday expenses more comfortably.
By ensuring you meet eligibility criteria, file your taxes, apply (if required), set up direct deposit, and update your status as needed, you position yourself to receive the maximum benefit possible.
If you qualify, don’t delay—make sure you claim your GIS and give your retirement the financial support it deserves.
FAQs
Can I receive GIS if I live outside Canada?
Generally, you must live in Canada to be eligible for GIS. If you leave Canada for too long, your benefit may stop or be suspended.
Does a pension from CPP or private work affect my GIS?
Yes. Income from CPP, workplace pensions, RRSP withdrawals, interest or rental income is counted when assessing your GIS eligibility and payment amount.
Will I need to re-apply for GIS every year?
If you are already receiving GIS and your information is up to date, you typically do not need to re-apply each year. But you must file your taxes each year and inform Service Canada of changes to your income or status.