Canada’s Low-Income Seniors to Get $1395 More, Check Full Eligibility and Payment Timeline

A much-needed financial boost is coming for thousands of low-income seniors in Canada. Starting July 2025, the federal government will increase the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) by up to \$1,395 per year, which adds \$116.25 monthly to the current benefit.

This long-term supplement is not just a minor adjustment—it’s a critical effort to support aging Canadians who rely almost entirely on government assistance. With cost of living and inflation at their highest in decades, this increase couldn’t have come at a better time.

Let’s explore how this new increase works, who qualifies, and how you can ensure you receive the full amount.

What is GIS and Why Is It Important?

The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a non-taxable monthly payment provided to low-income seniors who already receive Old Age Security (OAS). It’s meant to help older Canadians who don’t have workplace pensions, RRSP savings, or other personal retirement income sources.

Unlike CPP or OAS, GIS doesn’t require contributions. Instead, it’s a needs-based benefit that helps vulnerable seniors cover basic living costs like food, rent, and medical care.

The GIS adds to your OAS pension and is designed specifically to reduce financial hardship during retirement.

The 2025 Increase: What You’ll Receive

Starting in July 2025, eligible seniors will receive an additional \$1,395 per year, which works out to \$116.25 per month.

This isn’t a one-time bonus. It’s a permanent raise to the monthly GIS payment for those who continue to qualify.

If you’re already receiving GIS and your income stays below the government’s threshold, you don’t need to apply again—the increase will be added automatically to your monthly deposit.

This increase arrives at a crucial time when older Canadians are being hit hard by:

• Higher grocery prices
• Rising rent and utility bills
• Increased transportation and medical costs

Who Qualifies for the New GIS Amount? [Eligibility for GIS 2025]

To receive the new GIS top-up, you must meet three basic criteria:

1. Be 65 years or older
2. Be receiving Old Age Security (OAS)
3. Have a low annual income based on government-set limits

The income eligibility thresholds for 2025 are:

Recipient Type	Annual Income Limit (2025)
Single senior	Less than \$21,648
Married/common-law (both on OAS)	Combined under \$28,560
One spouse on OAS, one not	Combined under \$51,408

Note: These limits apply to net income, calculated by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) using your most recent tax return.

If your income is even slightly above these thresholds, your GIS amount may be reduced or eliminated. That’s why tax planning and reporting is crucial.

How and When Payments Will Be Made

If you’re already receiving GIS and meet the updated income requirements, you don’t need to take any action. Service Canada and the CRA will automatically apply the new increase to your account starting July 2025.

Here’s what to expect:

• Automatic adjustment if your taxes are filed and up to date
• Direct deposit continues as usual
• Annual reassessment based on new income tax filings

If you’re not currently receiving GIS, but believe you’re eligible:

• You can apply online through your My Service Canada Account
• Or apply by mail using a paper application form
• You can also visit a Service Canada office in person for help

Make sure your tax information is current and accurately reported to ensure timely processing.

Why This Increase Matters for Older Canadians

This GIS top-up is more than a number on a page—it represents real relief for seniors who live on tight, fixed incomes.

Here’s why it matters:

• Inflation is eroding purchasing power, especially for those on government-only pensions
• Health costs and medication prices continue to climb, even with public coverage
• Affordable housing remains a growing concern, particularly in large cities
• Seniors are often isolated financially, especially those without family or private income

The GIS increase can help reduce food insecurity, ensure access to essential care, and restore some sense of stability and dignity for aging Canadians.

Don’t Forget: Your GIS May Still Change Each Year

It’s important to understand that GIS payments are reviewed every year. Your income level directly affects your eligibility.

If you:

• Start earning part-time income
• Receive money from investments
• Begin a workplace pension or annuity

…your GIS amount could decrease or be cut entirely.

Here’s what you can do to protect your eligibility:

• Always file your income taxes on time
• Notify Service Canada of any major income changes
• Consult a financial planner if you plan to take up part-time work or cash out investments

Staying aware of your status ensures you’re not surprised by changes to your monthly payments.

The Bigger Picture: Canada’s Ongoing Pension Reforms

This GIS boost is part of ongoing efforts by the Canadian government to modernize and improve the retirement system. With debates over the retirement age, and CPP and OAS changes on the horizon, seniors must stay informed about how these updates may affect them.

A larger conversation is underway about:

• How Canada can better support aging populations
• How pension rules might adapt to longer life expectancies
• Whether more low-income credits or programs will be introduced

This GIS top-up signals a step in the right direction, but more changes may follow—so staying engaged with federal updates is vital.