$1,381 Guaranteed Income Supplement in 2025 – How to Check Eligibility

The warm morning sun streams in via Margaret Wilson’s kitchen window in Winnipeg, and the steam rising from her tea provides a mild glow. This morning, like every month, Margaret, 76, is reviewing her price range. It’s getting tougher each year.

“My husband died three years ago,” she says, clutching her teacup with trembling hands. “His pension stopped and suddenly I was dependent on Old Age Security (OAS). The first winter, I had to decide whether to buy my medicines or keep the heater above 16 degrees.”

Margaret’s life changed when a social worker helped her apply for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). “This payment changed my life. Now I can buy my heart medicine and keep my house warm,” she says, relieved. “I wish I had known about it before.”

What is the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)?

The GIS is an essential part of Canada’s retirement aid machine. It works alongside the Old Age Security (OAS) pension to provide a safety net for the elderly. While the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is based totally on your operating years, the GIS addresses the economic needs of older adults who’ve low earnings.

Established in 1967, the plan has evolved over time to become more than just a simple supplement but a comprehensive benefit plan that takes into account the changing financial needs of older adults.

“The GIS reflects Canada’s core belief that no elderly person should live in poverty, whether they have worked a lifetime or stayed at home to care for their family,” says Dr. Sophia Chen, who researches social policies at the University of Toronto.

The plan is even more important for women because many women spend most of their lives at home and taking care of their family and their pension contributions are very low.

GIS payment increase in 2025

The government has announced that GIS payments will increase to a maximum of $1,381 per month in 2025. This is an increase of 3.8% over the previous year to take into account rising inflation.

For married couples, if both are receiving OAS, the combined maximum amount of GIS will be $2,209 per month. If one partner is not receiving OAS, the maximum amount of GIS will be $1,655 per month.

Robert Taylor, 71, of Halifax, says of the increase, “It will seem like a small amount to some people, but when every dollar counts, it gives you the opportunity to eat fresh fruit and vegetables when you would otherwise have to rely on canned food and instant noodles.”

Eligibility for GIS

To apply for GIS in 2025, you must meet the following conditions:

• Be 65 years of age or older
• Be receiving an Old Age Security (OAS) pension
• Be a legal resident of Canada
• Have an annual income below a certain threshold

The income eligibility limits for GIS for 2025 will be as follows:

• Single, widowed, or divorced seniors with an annual income of less than $20,832
• The combined income limit for married couples is $27,552 (if both are receiving OAS).
• The limit is $49,920 if one partner is not receiving OAS.

GIS gradually decreases with income, so the benefit does not end completely. For example, GIS decreases by 50 cents for every additional dollar of income.

How ​​to apply for GIS?

The application process for GIS has now been simplified. Many seniors automatically receive GIS with OAS. Still, many are unaware of the plan.

Main ways to apply for GIS:

1. Online Application: From ‘My Service Canada’ account

2. Paper Application: Complete and submit Form ISP-3025 to Service Canada.

3. Apply directly at a Service Canada Centre.

Documents required for GIS:

• Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Bank Statement (for direct deposit)
• Income statement from last year
• Proof of marital status
• Proof of residence

Ways to maximize GIS benefits

Some strategies can be adopted to maximize GIS benefits:

• Use a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)— Withdrawals from this do not affect GIS.
• Plan RRSP/RRIF withdrawals—Income from these can reduce GIS.
• Job income up to $5,000 does not affect GIS—income between $5,000 and $15,000 Only 50% of the income is counted in the GIS calculation.

Positive life changes through GIS

GIS not only provides financial support; it also improves the quality of life for seniors.

“Before, I kept the temperature in my house at just 15°C to reduce my electricity bill. Now I can turn on the heater without worrying. It seems like a small change, but it changes the experience of living,” says Patricia Dumont, 73, from Trois-Rivières, Quebec.

For Thomas Williams from Fredericton, GIS has meant the freedom to meet friends. “Before, I couldn’t go out for a coffee because every dollar had to count. But now I can meet my friends, and that helps a lot with loneliness.”

The future of GIS

• Some potential changes are being discussed to make GIS more effective:
• Automatic registration for all eligible seniors
• Linking GIS to inflation on a quarterly basis so benefits increase on time
• Calculating GIS based on regional inflation

“Today, many seniors are living in rented homes or paying off debt even after retirement. GIS needs to adapt to these new realities,” says Maria Rodriguez, policy director at an organization for seniors.

Conclusion

GIS remains a strong safety net for seniors in Canada. The maximum amount, set to rise to $1,381 per month in 2025, is more than just financial support—it’s assurance of a dignified life.

As Margaret Wilson says, “Don’t think you have to figure everything out yourself. Ask for help, get information, and make sure you get the benefits you deserve.”

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