Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) payments are provided to eligible low-income seniors who receive the Old Age Security (OAS) pension.
This monthly benefit is tax-free and starts at age 65.
There are several qualification requirements for the GIS, including a maximum income threshold that currently ranges from $21,624 to $51,840.
What Income is Used to Calculate GIS?
To qualify for the GIS, your net income for the previous year must fall below specific maximum thresholds set by the government each quarter.
If you are single, the maximum income to qualify for GIS in 2024 is $21,624.
This income varies based on your marital status as follows:
| Marital Situation | Annual Family Income |
| Single, widowed, or divorced | $21,624 |
| Your spouse or common-law partner receives the full OAS pension | $28,560 |
| Your spouse or common-law partner receives the Allowance | $39,984 |
| Your spouse or common-law partner does not receive an OAS pension | $51,840 |
You can receive GIS benefits while earning up to $5,000 in employment or self-employment income annually. Employment income exceeding this amount will reduce the GIS you receive.
This is also referred to as the GIS clawback, resulting in a 50-cent GIS reduction for every extra dollar earned between $5,000 and $15,000.
Is OAS Considered Income for GIS?
No, OAS is not included in your income when calculating GIS. When determining your eligibility, the following sources of income are considered:
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP) or Quebec Pension Plan benefits
- Workplace pensions
- RRSP funds are withdrawn during the year.
- Interest and investment income earned.
- Capital gains and taxable Canadian dividends.
- Net income from rental properties.
- Employment insurance benefits
- Workers’ compensation payments and alimony
These income sources are exempted:
- OAS, GIS, Allowance, or Allowance for the Survivor payments.
- Employment or self-employment income up to $5,000 annually
- Deductions such as union dues, moving expenses, RRSP deductions, etc.
- TFSA
How Much is GIS in 2024?
The maximum monthly Guaranteed Income Supplement for a single, widowed, or divorced pensioner in 2024 is $1,065.47.
For couples, the GIS table below shows how much to expect (maximum):
| Marital Situation | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
| Your spouse/common-law partner receives a full OAS pension | $641.35 |
| Your spouse/common-law partner receives the Allowance | $641.35 |
| Your spouse/common-law partner does not receive OAS benefits | $1,065.47 |
GIS benefits are revised in January, April, July, and October to reflect increases in the cost of living.
You can estimate your OAS benefits using this calculator.
Related: Is GIS Taxable?
Other GIS Benefits and Income Thresholds
Your spouse or common-law partner may qualify for Allowance or Allowance for the Survivor benefits.
| Benefit | Maximum Monthly Payment | Maximum Income Threshold |
| Allowance | $1,354.69 | $39,984 |
| Allowance for the Survivor | $1,614.89 | $29,112 |
Who is Eligible for GIS?
In addition to income levels, GIS recipients must also meet other requirements, including:
- Must be 65 or older and live in Canada.
- Must receive the OAS.
How to Apply for the GIS
You may receive a letter from Service Canada indicating you qualify for GIS, and payments will commence automatically.
If you are not enrolled automatically, you may need to apply online through your My Service Canada Account. You can also submit a paper application using Form ISP-3550 or ISP-3025.
GIS Payment Dates in 2024
- January 29, 2024
- February 27, 2024
- March 26, 2024
- April 26, 2024
- May 29, 2024
- June 26, 2024
- July 29, 2024
- August 28, 2024
- September 25, 2024
- October 29, 2024
- November 27, 2024
- December 20, 2024
Related: CPP and OAS Increases.
FAQs
If you are single, widowed, or divorced, you can get GIS with an income below $21,624. If you have a spouse, you may qualify for GIS with income between $28,560 and $51,840, depending on whether they receive an OAS benefit.
Yes, GIS benefits are based on your net income in the prior year.
The CPP is included in your income when assessing your eligibility for GIS.
The maximum GIS payment in 2024 is $1,065.47.
Related: OAS Death Benefits Explained.
I found this very helpful thank you for the information.
@Cynthia: Glad to be of help!