In Canada, many retirees depend on the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) as their primary sources of income. For low-income seniors, however, an additional financial boost is often needed. This is where the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) comes in — a monthly, non-taxable benefit provided to qualifying seniors who already receive OAS.
Now, in a timely move to support those most affected by inflation, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that an extra $1,700 in GIS benefits will be issued starting July 29, 2025. Here’s everything seniors need to know about this increase, including eligibility requirements, payment dates, and how the benefit works.
What Is the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is a federal program aimed at helping low-income seniors living in Canada. It provides additional financial support to individuals aged 65 or older who are already receiving the Old Age Security pension.
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GIS payments are based on your household income, and eligibility varies depending on your marital status and whether your spouse or common-law partner also receives OAS or GIS.
How the Extra $1,700 GIS Benefit Works
The $1,700 in extra GIS benefits is a cumulative increase expected to be spread across the remaining monthly payments for 2025, beginning on July 29. This means eligible recipients will see higher deposits in their accounts starting from that date.
The additional payments are meant to help seniors cope with rising living costs, including housing, food, and healthcare expenses.
GIS Payment Dates for the Second Half of 2025
The monthly GIS payments are scheduled similarly to other pension benefits in Canada. If you’re enrolled in direct deposit, the money will arrive in your account on the dates listed below. If not, expect a cheque in the mail, which may take up to 10 business days to arrive.
Upcoming GIS Payment Dates:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| July | 29 July 2025 |
| August | 27 August 2025 |
| September | 25 September 2025 |
| October | 29 October 2025 |
| November | 26 November 2025 |
| December | 22 December 2025 |
GIS Eligibility Criteria in Canada
To receive GIS benefits — including the upcoming $1,700 increase — applicants must meet certain government-defined conditions:
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- Must be 65 years or older
- Must live in Canada
- Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Must receive Old Age Security (OAS) benefits
- Can live outside Canada for up to 6 months per year
- Sponsored immigrants who have lived in Canada less than 10 years may be ineligible unless special conditions are met
Who Automatically Qualifies for GIS?
In most cases, you don’t need to apply for GIS separately. If you qualify for OAS and meet the GIS income thresholds, the government will automatically enroll you.
Once you’re registered, Service Canada sends a letter confirming your enrollment. Your GIS payment typically starts in the same month as your OAS benefit or on the specified date mentioned in the letter.
When Is an Application Needed?
Although most seniors are automatically enrolled, some might still need to submit an application. You may be contacted by Service Canada asking you to apply, or you might notice you haven’t received any payments and decide to take action.
If this is the case, you can apply in two ways:
- Online via your Service Canada Account
- By paper application, which requires personal information including your Social Insurance Number
Applicants can also use the online portal to check the status of their application and update their bank details to avoid payment delays.
GIS Income Thresholds for 2025
Eligibility for GIS depends heavily on your income and marital status. Below are the 2025 income limits:
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| Marital Status | Annual Income Threshold |
|---|---|
| Single, divorced, or widowed | Under $22,056 |
| Married/common-law (spouse gets full OAS) | Under $29,136 (combined) |
| Married/common-law (spouse doesn’t get OAS) | Under $52,848 (combined) |
| Married/common-law (spouse receives GIS) | Under $40,800 (combined) |
GIS Payment Amounts for July 2025 Onwards
While GIS amounts vary, there is a maximum monthly benefit that can be received. These figures apply to payments made between April and June 2025, and may adjust later in the year.
| Marital Status | Max Monthly GIS Payment |
|---|---|
| Single, divorced, or widowed | Up to $1,086.88 |
| Married/common-law (spouse receives OAS) | Up to $654.23 |
| Married/common-law (spouse receives GIS) | Up to $654.23 |
| Married/common-law (spouse does not receive OAS) | Up to $1,086.88 |
These amounts could be revised later in 2025 to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or other economic indicators.
What to Do If You Haven’t Received Your GIS Payment
If your GIS payment hasn’t arrived by the expected date, consider the following steps:
- Check your direct deposit information with Service Canada.
- Allow up to 10 business days if receiving a cheque.
- Contact Service Canada directly if the delay continues beyond 10 days.
Keeping your bank details and address updated ensures smooth delivery of payments.