For many low-income seniors in Canada, retirement can come with significant financial stress. As the cost of living continues to rise — particularly food, housing, and healthcare — support programs like the Old Age Security (OAS) become all the more critical. But for those living on limited or no private pension income, there’s an additional lifeline: the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which is designed specifically to help the most financially vulnerable older Canadians.
Understanding whether you qualify for OAS and GIS, and how much you can expect to receive, can make a meaningful difference in managing your monthly budget. With several eligibility factors and some recent adjustments to benefits and thresholds, it’s more important than ever for seniors or their caregivers to get up to speed. Below, we lay out exactly who qualifies, what monthly benefit amounts look like in 2024, and how to ensure you get the maximum possible support.
OAS and GIS program overview
| Program | Old Age Security (OAS) | Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Base pension for most Canadians over 65 | Supplement for low-income OAS recipients |
| Eligibility Age | 65 and older | 65 and older, must receive OAS |
| Max Monthly Payment (2024) | $713.34 (age 65–74), $784.67 (age 75+) | Up to $1,065.47 (single, 65–74), varies by situation |
| Income Threshold | Full OAS if income under $134,626 | Single seniors under $21,624 (2024) |
| Application Method | Automatic or apply online/paper | Must be applied for separately after OAS |
Who qualifies and why it matters
To receive OAS, you must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident who has lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. The full OAS pension is available to those who have lived in Canada for 40 years or more after age 18. If you’ve lived in Canada for less than 40 years, you’ll receive a partial OAS pension, generally 1/40th of the full amount for every full year lived in the country.
To qualify for the GIS, you must already be receiving OAS and have an individual or combined spousal annual income below the specified threshold. In 2024, single seniors must earn less than $21,624 annually to qualify. For couples, the thresholds vary based on whether one or both receive OAS/GIS — the range typically falls between $28,000 and $39,000 in combined annual income.
“These support programs are not only important, they’re lifelines. Many seniors are living on extremely limited budgets — the GIS ensures that no one falls below the basic subsistence level.”
— Jane McCallum, Senior Policy Analyst (Fictional Placeholder)
How much seniors can receive in 2024
The amount of OAS and GIS you can receive depends heavily on your age and income level. Below are key updates as of the most recent quarterly adjustment (July–September 2024).
- OAS for seniors aged 65 to 74: up to $713.34/mo
- OAS for seniors aged 75 and older: up to $784.67/mo (includes 10% increase for those 75+)
- GIS for single seniors (65-74): up to $1,065.47/mo
- GIS for single seniors (75+): slightly higher, as GIS scales with OAS
Additional allowances are available for couples or for a spouse/common-law partner who receives neither OAS nor GIS. Each combination has a slightly different income threshold and payment amount.
How income affects payment amounts
Your net income from all sources directly affects whether you qualify for the GIS and how much you can receive. Even modest part-time income, retirement savings withdrawals, or CPP/OAS clawbacks can reduce eligibility.
The GIS begins to phase out once you exceed specific thresholds. For 2024, the GIS is reduced:
- By $1 per $2 earned over the minimum threshold (for single seniors)
- Eventually to zero when your income surpasses $21,624 (single) or higher for couples
One positive feature: GIS is not taxable, so while it doesn’t need to be reported as income for income tax purposes, it is considered when determining eligibility for other income-tested benefits.
Winners and losers under the 2024 changes
| Group | Status | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Seniors aged 75 and over | Winner | Receive a 10% boost to OAS since July 2022, expanded in 2024 rates |
| Low-income single seniors | Winner | May get maximum GIS payment if income stays below $21,624 |
| Seniors with CPP or marginal work income | Loser | Income may reduce GIS eligibility or eliminate it |
| Canadians who didn’t live in Canada for 40 years | Loser | Receive partial OAS pension |
How to apply step-by-step
For many seniors, the government may automatically enroll you for OAS if they have sufficient information. However, if you don’t receive a notice, you’ll need to apply yourself. Here’s how to apply for OAS and GIS:
Step 1: Apply for Old Age Security (OAS)
- Check your Service Canada account or wait for a notice letter
- If not automatically enrolled, apply online via your My Service Canada Account or using a paper application form
- You must apply 6 months before turning 65 to allow processing time
Step 2: Apply for Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Only after your OAS begins can you apply for GIS
- You must file your annual income tax to renew GIS payments each year
- Provide accurate income declarations, especially if you have recent changes (like a reduced pension)
It’s crucial to keep your OAS and GIS information updated. Changes in marital status, income, or residency can all affect your eligibility and payment amounts.
Additional support programs to consider
Beyond OAS and GIS, low-income seniors may qualify for other provincial and federal programs:
- Allowance Programs: For spouses/common-law partners of GIS recipients aged 60–64
- Provincial supplements: Some provinces offer extra top-ups
- GST/HST credit: Seniors with low income often receive quarterly tax-free payments
“Many seniors don’t know they’re missing out. Even one unclaimed benefit can mean hundreds of dollars per month lost — it’s worth checking eligibility annually.”
— Reza Patel, Retirement Advocate (Fictional Placeholder)
Short and essential FAQs
How much can a single senior receive from GIS in 2024?
A single senior aged 65 to 74 can receive up to $1,065.47 per month in GIS payments, in addition to their OAS pension, if their income is below $21,624 annually.
Is the Guaranteed Income Supplement taxable?
No. GIS payments are non-taxable and do not need to be declared as income for federal tax filing, though they are used to determine other benefit eligibility.
Do I need to apply for OAS or is it automatic?
Some seniors are automatically enrolled, but if you do not receive an enrollment letter from Service Canada by age 64, you must apply manually.
What happens if I didn’t live in Canada for 40 years?
If you’ve lived in Canada for less than 40 years after age 18, you’ll receive a partial OAS pension scaled to your years of residency.
Can I get GIS if I only receive partial OAS?
Yes, as long as you meet the income criteria. GIS is calculated based on your actual income and OAS amount, partial or full.
Does GIS affect other government benefits?
Because GIS is income-tested, losing it could impact eligibility for provincial supplements and other federal programs such as subsidized housing or medication plans.
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