With inflation soaring and basic living expenses hitting new highs, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially confirmed that a $1,395.73 Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) payment will be deposited for eligible senior citizens on July 29, 2025. This tax-free monthly benefit offers much-needed support to low-income seniors struggling to afford essentials like housing, food, transportation, and medical care.
What Is the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is a non-taxable monthly benefit provided by the federal government to low-income Canadians who already receive Old Age Security (OAS). It is specifically designed to ensure that retired Canadians with little or no other income can live with dignity and meet their basic daily needs.
GIS payments are reviewed and adjusted quarterly by the CRA based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), making this benefit highly responsive to changes in the cost of living.
Quick Overview of the July 2025 GIS Payment
Category | Details |
---|---|
Payment Amount | Up to $1,395.73/month |
Payment Date | July 29, 2025 |
Eligible Entity | Canadian seniors aged 65+ |
Administered By | Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) |
Official Site | canada.ca |
Eligibility for the $1,395 GIS Payment in July 2025
To receive the July 2025 GIS benefit, applicants must meet several strict eligibility criteria:
- Must be 65 years of age or older.
- Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident.
- Must have resided in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18.
- Must be already receiving OAS payments.
- Must have a combined annual household income below $41,184 (as per 2024 tax return).
If you’re a spouse or common-law partner of someone eligible for GIS, you may also qualify for a supplemental benefit depending on your income and living arrangement.
July 2025 GIS Deposit Date: What to Expect
The CRA has announced that the next GIS deposit will be made on July 29, 2025. Beneficiaries who have signed up for direct deposit will receive the funds straight into their bank accounts. For those who receive paper cheques, allow several business days for postal delivery.
Full GIS Payment Schedule for 2025
The CRA has released the complete GIS payment calendar for the year 2025:
Month | Payment Date |
---|---|
January | January 29, 2025 |
February | February 26, 2025 |
March | March 27, 2025 |
April | April 28, 2025 |
May | May 28, 2025 |
June | June 26, 2025 |
July | July 29, 2025 |
August | August 27, 2025 |
September | September 25, 2025 |
October | October 29, 2025 |
November | November 26, 2025 |
December | December 22, 2025 |
If you have opted for direct deposit, you will typically receive your funds on the listed date. Cheque recipients may experience slight mailing delays.
Why the GIS Program Is So Vital for Retired Canadians
The GIS benefit is more than just a monthly payment—it’s a lifeline for nearly one million Canadians. For many seniors, GIS ensures:
- Stable income regardless of employment or savings history.
- Quarterly inflation protection, with no cuts even if CPI declines.
- Financial security, helping to cover essentials like rent, medication, and groceries.
- Dignified retirement for vulnerable and low-income seniors.
In a time of economic uncertainty, GIS plays a crucial role in protecting older Canadians from poverty and social isolation.
How to Apply for the GIS Allowance if You’re Not Enrolled
If you’re turning 65 soon or are already receiving Old Age Security (OAS) but haven’t yet applied for GIS, here’s how to get started:
Apply Online:
- Log in to your My Service Canada Account (MSCA) and follow the instructions under the GIS application section.
Apply by Mail:
- Download the GIS application form from canada.ca, complete it, and mail it to the nearest Service Canada office.
In-Person Application:
- Visit your local Service Canada Centre and submit your application with the required documents.
Make sure to file your tax return annually, as GIS eligibility is reassessed every year based on your previous year’s income.
CRA Reminds: Income Reporting Is Crucial for GIS
The CRA determines GIS eligibility by reviewing your annual income through your tax return. If you don’t file your taxes, you risk missing your payments. Even if you have no income to report, you should still file your return to continue receiving GIS benefits.