Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) are two key benefit programs offered by the Government of Canada to support seniors. OAS provides a monthly pension to most Canadians aged 65 and older, regardless of income, while GIS offers additional financial assistance specifically for low-income seniors who receive OAS.
The combination of OAS and GIS benefits provides a more comprehensive financial safety net. OAS acts as the primary pension payment, and GIS is a supplementary payment calculated based on your income level. When your income is below a certain threshold, GIS helps boost your total monthly retirement income.
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Who Can Receive Both OAS and GIS in 2025?
To qualify for both benefits in 2025, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be 65 years of age or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident living in Canada
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18 to qualify for OAS
- Have an annual income below the GIS income threshold, which is updated yearly
The GIS income thresholds vary depending on marital status and living arrangements. It is important to check the official limits on the Government of Canada’s OAS website.
Applying for OAS and GIS
You can apply for these benefits online through the official Service Canada website, or by calling Service Canada at 1-800-277-9914. Many seniors also visit Service Canada offices in person for assistance.
Note: OAS is typically paid automatically if you are registered for the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), but GIS requires an application if your income qualifies. It is important to submit applications promptly to avoid delays.
Eligibility Criteria You Need to Meet
Eligibility for Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is based on specific residency, age, and income requirements set by the Government of Canada. Understanding these criteria ensures you qualify and receive the maximum benefits available.
Residency and Age Requirements
- You must be at least 65 years old to qualify for OAS and GIS benefits.
- Applicants must be Canadian citizens or legal residents living in Canada.
- To receive full OAS payments, you need to have lived in Canada for at least 40 years after turning 18. However, a minimum of 10 years of residence is required to be eligible for a partial OAS pension.
- For GIS, you must be receiving OAS and currently living in Canada.
Income Limits for GIS
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is designed to support low-income seniors. Income limits change yearly and depend on marital status:
- Single seniors: Income must be below the GIS threshold, which for 2025 is approximately $20,000 annually (excluding OAS payment).
- Married or common-law seniors: Income limits vary based on combined income and where both spouses receive the GIS.
GIS payments decrease as income rises and stop once income exceeds the threshold. For the most accurate and updated limits, visit the official Government of Canada website.
Common Reasons for Ineligibility
Several issues may cause denied applications or loss of benefits:
- Insufficient residency: Not meeting the minimum years living in Canada.
- Incorrect age: Applying before turning 65.
- Income exceeds limits: Earning more than the GIS income threshold.
- Not residing in Canada: Temporarily living outside the country beyond allowable periods.
- Failure to reapply or report changes: Missing required updates on income or living situation.
If you believe your application was wrongly denied, contact Service Canada at 1-800-277-9914 or visit a local Service Canada office for assistance.
What Changed for 2025
In 2025, there are important changes to the Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) programs, brought by the Government of Canada to better support seniors facing rising costs of living.
Updates to Payment Amounts
The monthly payment amounts for both OAS and GIS have been adjusted. OAS recipients saw a modest increase reflecting government efforts to provide greater financial stability. Similarly, GIS payments have increased for eligible low-income seniors.
- OAS maximum monthly payment increased by approximately 3.8% for 2025.
- GIS payments adjusted according to updated income thresholds.
- These increases aim to offset inflation and cost of living pressures.
Adjustments Based on Inflation
Both OAS and GIS benefits are indexed to inflation measures. In 2025, the adjustments are based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to ensure seniors maintain purchasing power despite rising prices.
- Payments are reviewed quarterly to reflect economic changes.
- Inflation-based increases are automatic and applied to all eligible recipients.
- This indexing protects against erosion of benefit value over time.
New Application Rules Introduced
The Service Canada has implemented new rules aimed at simplifying and streamlining the application process for OAS and GIS:
- Mandatory online application option through the official Service Canada website.
- Enhanced identity verification via secure government platforms to prevent fraud.
- Requirement to provide updated income information annually for GIS eligibility.
- Shortened processing times with electronic submissions prioritized.
- New support channels including a dedicated helpline at 1-800-277-9914.
Understanding these changes helps seniors plan their finances better and ensures timely receipt of benefits.
When and How Payments Are Sent
Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) payments are issued monthly by the Government of Canada. Knowing when and how these payments are sent can help seniors manage their finances smoothly throughout 2025.
Monthly Payment Dates in 2025
Payments for both OAS and GIS are generally issued on a fixed schedule each month. In 2025, payments will arrive on these dates:
- January 29
- February 26
- March 31
- April 30
- May 29
- June 30
- July 31
- August 29
- September 30
- October 30
- November 28
- December 31
If a payment date falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are typically made on the last business day before that date.
How to Set Up Direct Deposit
Direct deposit is the safest and fastest way to receive OAS and GIS payments. You can set it up via Service Canada using various methods:
- Visit the My Service Canada Account online portal.
- Call the Service Canada toll-free line at 1-800-277-9914 to register.
- Visit a local Service Canada office in person with your bank account information.
- Fill out and submit the form ISP 3529 (Direct Deposit Enrollment) if mailing by paper.
- Confirm your account details and expect confirmation within a few weeks.
Direct deposit ensures timely payments and reduces the risk of lost or delayed checks.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive It
If you miss a payment or don’t receive your OAS or GIS benefit, take the following steps:
- Check with your bank to confirm if the payment was deposited.
- Verify your direct deposit information with Service Canada to ensure it’s correct.
- Contact Service Canada immediately at 1-800-277-9914 to report the issue.
- Visit a Service Canada center for in-person help if needed.
- If payment was lost or stolen, request a replacement cheque promptly.
Acting quickly helps avoid financial disruption and ensures timely resolution.
FAQ – How the OAS and GIS Benefits Work in 2025 (and What Changed)
What is the Old Age Security (OAS) program?
The Old Age Security (OAS) program is a monthly pension provided by the Government of Canada to most Canadians aged 65 or older, regardless of income.
Who qualifies for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) in 2025?
Seniors aged 65 or older with low income, residing in Canada, and receiving OAS may qualify for GIS, with income limits that change yearly.
How are OAS and GIS payments distributed in 2025?
Payments are issued monthly on fixed dates, typically the last business day of the month, with direct deposit being the fastest and safest method.
How do I apply for OAS and GIS benefits?
You can apply online through the Service Canada website, by phone at 1-800-277-9914, or in person at Service Canada offices.
What are common reasons for being ineligible for OAS or GIS?
Common reasons include not meeting residency requirements, applying before age 65, exceeding GIS income limits, or living outside Canada for too long.
What should I do if I don’t receive my OAS or GIS payment?
Check with your bank first, then contact Service Canada immediately at 1-800-277-9914 to report the issue or visit a Service Canada office for assistance.
