Guaranteed Income Supplement
GIS
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a federal, non-taxable monthly benefit for low-income seniors aged 65 and older who receive the Old Age Security (OAS) pension. It is designed to provide additional financial support to ensure a minimum level of income. The benefit amount is income-tested and adjusted quarterly based on your marital status and previous year's income.
Useful Tips for Applying
• GIS is non-taxable — it won't affect other income-tested benefits • If your income has dropped significantly this year, you can ask Service Canada to calculate GIS based on your current year income rather than last year's • Even if you never filed taxes, you should file to trigger GIS eligibility • GIS and OAS amounts depend on factors including income, age, marital status and how long you have lived in Canada. Check the current Government of Canada payment tables for applicable amounts.
Who May Qualify
• You are 65 years of age or older • You are a resident of Canada • You are receiving the Old Age Security (OAS) pension • Your annual income (excluding OAS) is below the established threshold for your marital status
Required Documents
• Social Insurance Number (SIN) • Information regarding your marital status • Income information from your previous year's tax return (or an estimate of current year income if you have experienced a significant drop in income)
How to Apply
1. Apply for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension; you will be automatically assessed for GIS eligibility upon approval. 2. If you do not receive an enrollment letter from Service Canada after turning 64, you may apply online through your 'My Service Canada Account' or by submitting the paper form ISP-3025 (Statement of Income for the Guaranteed Income Supplement). 3. File your income tax return by April 30 every year to ensure your GIS is automatically renewed and accurately calculated. 4. If your income drops significantly due to retirement or other life changes, contact Service Canada to request a recalculation based on an estimate of your current year's income.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not filing taxes each year — GIS renewal requires an annual tax filing • Not knowing you qualify — many low-income seniors are unaware they're eligible • Not applying early — GIS can only be backdated up to 11 months • Assuming your income is too high — the threshold is higher than many think
Preparing an application?
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
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Resources in this area
DTC Help by BJ Clancy
DTC Help by BJ Clancy is an independent Facebook resource focused on Canada's Disability Tax Credit (DTC). In addition to sharing information and answering questions about the DTC, BJ Clancy can help people understand and work through the DTC application forms and process. The page also provides a space for people to ask questions and discuss their experiences with the Disability Tax Credit. Independent resource. Not affiliated with the Canada Revenue Agency or the Government of Canada.
View details Financial AssistanceRDSP Connect
RDSP Connect is a private service that helps people understand Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) eligibility and navigate the RDSP process. Services include a free consultation to review eligibility, help completing the documentation to open an RDSP, and ongoing support with planning contributions and investments with the goal of maximizing Canada Disability Savings Grants and Bonds. Each year, RDSP Connect reviews the client's Grant and Bond Entitlement Statement with them, and can point people to resources for Disability Tax Credit (DTC) questions. RDSP Connect is not a government service and is not affiliated with the Government of Canada or with Accessible Compass. This listing is for information only — it is not an endorsement, and Accessible Compass does not guarantee any outcome, including DTC or RDSP approval or any financial result.
View details Financial AssistanceSlinn Tax
Slinn Tax provides virtual tax services with a focus on Canadians who have been approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). The service offers reviews of DTC-approved tax years to help identify potentially missed tax credits, deductions, benefits, adjustments, and eligible family transfers. Slinn Tax also provides personal income tax preparation and disability-related tax resources. Slinn Tax is an independent, third-party tax service — it is not a government program and is not an Accessible Compass service. Accessible Compass does not provide, endorse, or guarantee the professional services offered by this provider.
View detailsAccessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
