The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is more than just a monthly cheque—it’s a cornerstone of financial security for thousands of older Canadians. As living costs continue to rise, this non-taxable top-up to the Old Age Security (OAS) pension provides vital relief for those aged 65 and above with limited income. But who qualifies, how is it calculated, and what’s changing in 2025?
The GIS is a federal monthly benefit paid to low-income seniors who are already receiving the OAS pension. It is designed to assist those who have little or no other income, helping them meet basic needs like housing, food, and medication.
To receive the GIS in 2025, a senior must:
For a single individual, that threshold is currently $21,624. For couples, it can range between $28,560 and $51,408 depending on whether both receive OAS or if one receives the Allowance.
“Without GIS, I couldn’t pay for my prescriptions and heat during the winter. It’s a lifeline.”
The amount varies based on your income and marital status. For July to September 2025, the maximum monthly GIS benefit for a single person is approximately $1,065.47. Couples typically receive less per person, depending on combined income and eligibility.
If you’re eligible for the OAS pension, you may be automatically considered for GIS. However, if you weren’t enrolled automatically, you’ll need to complete a GIS application via Service Canada.
Required documents include proof of age, residency, and income. For newcomers to Canada or those with incomplete tax returns, manual application is common and should be done early to avoid delays in payment.
The GIS program also links with the Allowance and Allowance for the Survivor. These payments are available to:
This bridge benefit helps maintain financial stability before a person becomes eligible for full OAS and GIS at age 65.
If your income decreases mid-year due to retirement or loss of a spouse, you can submit a “Statement of Estimated Income” to recalculate your GIS without waiting for July’s automatic review.
With grocery bills, rent, and energy costs still climbing in many provinces, GIS helps seniors stay above the poverty line. Yet many experts argue that GIS amounts haven’t kept pace with inflation.
“It’s a good program, but the ceiling needs to rise. $1,000 doesn’t go as far as it used to.”
There have been recent calls to:
While no reforms have been confirmed in Parliament as of summer 2025, Ministerial reviews are ongoing and a pilot program in Nova Scotia is testing higher GIS thresholds for rural seniors.
While Canada’s public pension system has several components, the Guaranteed Income Supplement plays a uniquely humane role. It provides monthly dignity for seniors who’ve worked, raised families, or contributed to their communities—but now live on limited means.
As we age as a nation, GIS is not just a benefit. It’s a promise—of inclusion, care, and respect. Understanding and improving it isn’t just policy. It’s personal.
To learn more, visit a local Service Canada Centre or apply online. A secure retirement begins with the right information.
