Guaranteed Income Supplement Guide 2026: Eligibility, Amounts and Payment Information
The Guaranteed Income Supplement, also known as GIS, is a monthly benefit for eligible low-income seniors who receive Old Age Security. If you are 65 or older, live in Canada and have limited income, GIS may provide additional monthly support.
Quick Answer
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is a monthly payment for eligible low-income seniors who receive Old Age Security. Your amount depends on your annual income and whether you are single, married or in a common-law relationship.
What Is the Guaranteed Income Supplement?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is a federal benefit designed to provide extra financial support to low-income seniors in Canada. It is paid monthly and is connected to Old Age Security.
GIS is different from the Canada Pension Plan. CPP is based on contributions made during your working years, while GIS is income-tested and intended for eligible seniors with lower income.
Many seniors receive GIS together with Old Age Security. In most cases, GIS is reviewed each year using income information from your tax return.
Who May Qualify?
To qualify for GIS, you generally need to be 65 or older, receive the Old Age Security pension, live in Canada and have annual income below the official threshold for your situation.
Your marital status matters. The income threshold is different if you are single, divorced or widowed, or if you have a spouse or common-law partner.
Eligibility Checklist
- You are 65 years old or older.
- You receive the Old Age Security pension.
- You live in Canada.
- Your annual income is below the official GIS threshold.
- You file your income tax return so your income can be reviewed.
- Your spouse or common-law partner files a tax return if applicable.
- You meet any residency, legal status or sponsorship rules that apply.
How Much Could You Receive?
GIS amounts depend on your income and marital status. Seniors with lower income may receive a higher amount, while the payment is reduced as income increases.
| Your Situation | Annual Income Must Be | Maximum Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Single, divorced or widowed | Less than $22,512 | Up to $1,109.85 |
| Spouse/common-law partner receives full OAS | Less than $29,760 combined income | Up to $668.08 |
| Spouse/common-law partner receives the Allowance | Less than $41,664 combined income | Up to $668.08 |
| Spouse/common-law partner does not receive OAS or Allowance | Less than $53,952 combined income | Up to $1,109.85 |
These are maximum amounts. Your actual payment may be lower depending on income and personal circumstances.
GIS Payment Information
GIS is normally paid monthly together with Old Age Security. Payment dates follow the OAS schedule, so seniors usually receive both benefits on the same monthly payment date.
GIS and OAS Are Connected
You generally need to receive Old Age Security to qualify for GIS. If your OAS is stopped or your income changes, your GIS eligibility or amount may also change.
You can review monthly payment schedules in our Canada Government Payment Dates Guide.
How to Apply
Some seniors may be automatically considered for GIS, while others may need to apply. If you receive a letter from Service Canada, follow the instructions provided.
Confirm OAS status.
GIS is for eligible seniors who receive Old Age Security.
Review your income.
Check whether your annual income is below the official GIS threshold.
File your tax return.
Your income information is used to assess GIS eligibility and amounts.
Apply through Service Canada if needed.
Use the official Government of Canada process if you are not automatically enrolled.
Documents and Information You May Need
- Social Insurance Number.
- Date of birth.
- Current address and contact details.
- Banking information for direct deposit.
- Old Age Security information.
- Income tax return information.
- Spouse or common-law partner details if applicable.
- Residency and legal status information if requested.
Related Benefit Guides
Canada Benefits & Rebates Guide
Explore major benefit programs available across Canada.
Canada Senior Benefits Guide
Review senior benefit programs, eligibility and retirement support.
Canada Government Payment Dates
Check monthly federal benefit payment schedules.
Canada Housing Benefits Guide
Learn about housing assistance and affordability programs.
Official Guaranteed Income Supplement Resource
Northbly is an independent information website and is not affiliated with the Government of Canada. For official eligibility rules, amounts and application instructions, visit the Government of Canada resource below.
Official Government Resource
Visit the official Guaranteed Income Supplement page to confirm eligibility, payment amounts and how to apply.
Visit Official GIS ResourceFrequently Asked Questions
What is the Guaranteed Income Supplement?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is a monthly benefit for eligible low-income seniors who receive Old Age Security.
Who qualifies for GIS?
You generally need to be 65 or older, receive OAS, live in Canada and have income below the official threshold.
How much can I receive from GIS?
The amount depends on your income and marital status. Some single seniors may receive up to $1,109.85 per month, but actual amounts vary.
Is GIS paid every month?
Yes. GIS is normally paid monthly together with Old Age Security.
Do I need to file a tax return?
Filing your tax return is important because GIS amounts are based on income information.
Can I receive GIS and CPP?
Yes, but CPP income may affect your GIS amount because GIS is income-tested.
Is GIS the same as OAS?
No. OAS is a senior pension, while GIS is an additional income-tested supplement for eligible low-income OAS recipients.
Where can I apply for GIS?
You can apply through the official Government of Canada or Service Canada process if you are not automatically enrolled.
