Margaret’s story: A ray of relief for an elderly woman
Margaret Wilson is 76 years old and lives alone in Winnipeg. At the beginning of each month she calculates her expenses. This was easy for her before, but after her husband died her financial situation deteriorated.
“When my husband died, his pension stopped. I had to live on Old Age Security (OAS) alone. The first winter I had to decide whether to buy my medicines or keep the house warm above 16 degrees,” she says, holding a cup of tea in her hands.
However, her life changed when a social worker told her about the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and helped her apply. Now she receives extra money every month, which allows her to buy her essential medicines and keep her house comfortably warm.
“I wish I had known about it before,” she says with a smile.
There are many seniors like Margaret who could benefit from this scheme, but are not aware of it. Especially since the maximum amount of GIS will increase to $1,381 per month in 2025, it is important to know who is eligible for it and how to get it.
What is the Guaranteed Income Supplement
A strong support for Canadian seniors
GIS is an important part of Canada’s retirement support system. It is designed for seniors who have low incomes and do not have a large pension like the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). GIS helps those who are facing financial difficulties in their old age.
Launched in 1967, this program has grown from strength to strength over time. The government updates it according to inflation so that senior citizens do not face difficulty in living.
Experts say that this scheme is especially helpful for elderly women who spent most of their lives taking care of the house or doing part-time jobs and who do not have a big pension.
GIS payments and increase in 2025
In 2025, the government is going to increase GIS payments:
- Senior citizens living alone will get a maximum of $1,381 per month.
- If both spouses are receiving OAS and GIS, they will get a maximum of $2,209 per month.
- If only one person is receiving GIS benefits, he will get a maximum of $1,655 per month.
This increase has been made keeping in view inflation and cost of living.
“A few extra dollars a month makes a huge difference,” said Robert Taylor, 71, who lives in Halifax.
Who are eligible for GIS?
Basic requirements
The following are the eligibility criteria for GIS:
- Applicant must be 65 years of age or older
- Applicant must be receiving an OAS pension
- A legal resident of Canada
- Annual income below a certain threshold
This plan is specifically designed for people who have no other pension or very low income other than OAS.
Income Limits and GIS Calculation
- The maximum income limit for seniors living alone to receive GIS is $20,832 per year.
- If both spouses are receiving OAS, their combined income must be less than $27,552.
- If neither spouse is receiving OAS, the maximum income limit for GIS is $49,920.
The GIS amount gradually decreases as one’s income increases. For example, if your income increases by an additional $1, the GIS amount is reduced by $0.50.
How to Apply for GIS
Application Process
There are some methods to apply for GIS:
- Automatic Enrollment: If you carried out for OAS and your profits is low, you may acquire GIS routinely.
- – Apply Online: Through My Service Canada Account.
- Apply by Paper Form: This form (ISP-3025) may be downloaded from the Service Canada internet site.
- Apply at a Service Canada Centre: Those who’re unable to use on-line may additionally practice in character at a centre close to you.
“I don’t know a way to use a pc, however a Service Canada employee helped me and I applied effortlessly,” says James Morrison, eighty two, who lives in Newfoundland.
Required Documents
The following documents are required to apply:
- Social Insurance Number
- Bank Account Information
- Income Documents from the previous year
- Proof of marital status
- Proof of residence in Canada (if you are an immigrant)
Each year after you receive GIS, you must file your annual tax return to make sure your income limits don’t change.
How to make the most of GIS
Some tips that can help you maintain GIS benefits:
- Use a TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) because withdrawals from it do not affect GIS.
- Make RRSP withdrawals in small increments so that GIS is not suddenly affected.
- Earnings up to $5,000 do not affect GIS, and earnings up to $15,000 are only reduced by 50%.
George Henderson, 67, who works part-time at a hardware store, says,
“I like knowing that I can work a few more hours and still not lose my GIS.”
Impact of GIS on seniors’ lives
GIS no longer best offers financial blessings, it additionally affects the best of life of seniors.
- Access to health offerings: higher nutrition, affordability of drugs, and get entry to to essential fitness care.
- Social connections: it’s simpler to pay for bus fare or going out with friends.
- Home services: costs like heating payments, power bills may be protected.
“I used to shiver within the bloodless, however now I can keep the residence warm and sleep quite simply,” says Patricia Dumont, 73.
GIS: A step towards a dignified life
GIS helps Canadian seniors live a dignified life. It’s not just a financial aid, it’s a safety net that allows seniors to live their lives without financial stress.
“If you don’t know how to apply for GIS, don’t hesitate to ask for help. People are ready to help you, you just have to ask,” says Margaret Wilson.
GIS Payment Rates and Income Thresholds (2025)
| Recipient Category | Maximum Monthly Payment | Annual Income Threshold for Maximum | Income Threshold for Minimum Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single/Widowed/Divorced | $1,381 | $20,832 | $48,936 |
| Couple (both receiving OAS) | $831 each ($1,662 total) | $27,552 | $64,656 |
| Couple (one receiving OAS) | $1,655 | $49,920 | $98,400 |
| Couple (one receiving Allowance) | $831 for GIS recipient | $38,592 | $75,696 |
| Allowance Recipient (age 60-64) | $1,381 | $38,592 | $75,696 |
| Allowance for Survivor (age 60-64) | $1,652 | $27,552 | $49,632 |
FAQs
What is the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)?
A financial benefit for low-income Canadian seniors, supplementing Old Age Security (OAS) to ensure basic financial security.
Who qualifies for GIS in 2025?
Seniors aged 65+, receiving OAS, residing in Canada, and having income below specified thresholds qualify for GIS benefits.
How much is the maximum GIS payment in 2025?
Single seniors can receive up to $1,381 monthly, while couples can receive up to $2,209 combined, depending on income.
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