The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a lifeline for many low-income seniors in Canada, helping them meet everyday costs like rent, food, and medications. For April 2025, the GIS payment is scheduled for Monday, April 28.
Whether you’re already receiving benefits or just becoming eligible, it’s important to know when the payment will arrive, how much you can get, who qualifies, and how to apply without making common mistakes.
Table of Content
Payment
The GIS payment date for April 2025 is Monday, April 28. If you’re registered for direct deposit, your payment should land in your account that day. If you receive it by mail, expect a few extra days for delivery.
The maximum monthly benefit for a single senior is $1,086.88. Couples who both qualify can each receive up to $654.23, depending on their combined income.
Here’s a quick look at the April 2025 GIS details:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| April 2025 Payment Date | Monday, April 28, 2025 |
| Max Monthly Payment (Single) | $1,086.88 |
| Max Monthly Payment (Couple) | $654.23 per eligible spouse |
| Eligibility Age | 65 years or older |
| Income Threshold (Single) | Less than $22,056 annually |
| Income Threshold (Couple) | Less than $29,136 combined annually |
| Tax Filing Deadline | April 30, 2025 |
| Official Website | Canada.ca – GIS |
GIS
The GIS is a non-taxable monthly benefit given to low-income seniors who already receive the Old Age Security (OAS) pension. Its main purpose is to provide extra financial help so seniors can cover basic needs.
Introduced in 1967, GIS is a core part of Canada’s retirement support system, working alongside CPP and personal savings to help seniors stay above the poverty line.
Dates
Besides April 28, GIS payments will continue throughout 2025 on the following dates:
- May 28, 2025
- June 26, 2025
- July 29, 2025
- August 27, 2025
- September 25, 2025
Eligibility
You may qualify for GIS if you are at least 65 years old, live in Canada, receive the Old Age Security pension, and your annual income is under the government’s threshold.
Your eligibility is based on your previous year’s income unless your income recently changed due to retirement, separation, or a spouse’s death.
Income Thresholds
| Situation | Max Annual Income | Max Monthly GIS |
|---|---|---|
| Single, widowed, divorced | Under $22,056 | $1,086.88 |
| Married (spouse gets OAS) | Combined under $29,136 | $654.23 |
| Married (spouse gets Allowance) | Combined under $40,800 | $654.23 |
| Married (spouse not getting OAS or Allowance) | Combined under $52,848 | $1,086.88 |
Your income includes CPP, private pensions, earnings, and investment returns.
Amount
The GIS amount you receive depends on your income, your spouse’s income (if applicable), and your marital status. If your income dropped significantly in the current year, you can ask for a reassessment so your benefit is based on this year’s income instead of last year’s. That can increase your payment amount if you’re now earning less.
Apply
If you’re not automatically enrolled when you start receiving OAS, you’ll need to apply. There are two main ways to do it:
You can apply online by logging into your My Service Canada Account, completing the GIS application (Form ISP-3025), and uploading your identification documents.
Alternatively, you can apply by mail. Download and fill out Form ISP-3025 or ISP-3550 (for both OAS and GIS), attach proof of your SIN, income, and residency, and send it to your local Service Canada office.
Mistakes
Some common mistakes can delay or reduce your GIS payments. Not filing your taxes on time is a big one since GIS is reviewed annually based on your tax return. Misreporting your income can either lower your payment or trigger a review.
Also, not telling Service Canada about changes like marriage, divorce, or leaving the country for more than six months can impact your eligibility.
Tips
To make sure you receive your full benefits, use direct deposit to avoid delays and missing payments. Always notify Service Canada of any changes in your income or living status.
If you’re newly eligible, apply right away — you might qualify for up to 11 months of back payments. And if your income recently dropped, don’t hesitate to request a reassessment.
Example
Take Margaret, a 70-year-old widow in Ontario. She receives OAS and a small CPP pension, bringing her annual income to $19,000. That qualifies her for the full GIS amount of $1,086.88 per month.
With GIS and OAS combined, she brings in about $2,000 each month. This allows her to cover her rent, medications, and food without stress.
FAQs
When is the GIS April 2025 payment?
Monday, April 28, 2025.
How much can a single senior get from GIS?
Up to $1,086.88 monthly.
Who qualifies for GIS in Canada?
Seniors 65+ with low income receiving OAS.
How do I apply for GIS?
Online through My Service Canada or by mail.
What income affects GIS eligibility?
CPP, pensions, investments, and employment income.
