What is Guaranteed Income Supplement?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) provides additional money, on top of the OAS pension, to low-income seniors living in Canada.
Do I Qualify?
- You must already be receiving Old Age Security
- You must live in Canada
- Your annual income must be below the GIS thresholds for your marital status
- Employment, pension, and investment income can change your GIS amount
How Much Can I Get?
Maximum monthly amounts vary by marital status. Single seniors can receive over $1,000 per month, while couples receive different amounts depending on whether both spouses receive OAS.
How to Apply
Apply through Service Canada after you start receiving OAS. In later years, GIS often renews automatically if you continue filing taxes on time.
Visit Official Application PageFrequently Asked Questions
Does GIS renew automatically every year?
Often yes, but only if CRA and Service Canada have the tax information they need. Seniors who do not file taxes can lose GIS temporarily.
Does CPP count as income for GIS?
Yes. CPP, workplace pensions, RRSP/RRIF withdrawals, and many other income sources can reduce GIS.
Do TFSA withdrawals reduce GIS?
No. TFSA withdrawals do not count as taxable income, which is one reason they are often more GIS-friendly than RRSP or RRIF withdrawals.
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