Are you a low-income senior in Canada? The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) program may be able to help you financially. This government benefit supplements your Old Age Security (OAS) pension, providing additional income to help ensure your basic needs are met. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the GIS Allowance in 2024, including eligibility requirements, application process, and benefit amounts.
Understanding the GIS Allowance
The GIS Allowance is a tax-free monthly payment available to low-income Canadian seniors who are already receiving the OAS pension. Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the program helps bridge the gap for seniors with limited financial means.
Who Qualifies for the GIS Allowance in 2024?
To be eligible for the GIS Allowance in 2024, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: You must be 65 years of age or older.
- Residency: You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- OAS Pension: You must be receiving the Old Age Security pension.
- Income Thresholds: Your net income (including your spouse’s if applicable) must fall below a specific threshold set by the government each year. Here’s a breakdown of the income thresholds for 2024:
- Single, widowed, or divorced: Below $21,624 annually.
- Spouse/common-law partner receives full OAS pension: Combined income below $28,560 annually.
- Spouse/common-law partner does not receive OAS pension: Combined income below $51,840 annually.
- Spouse/common-law partner receives Allowance: Combined income below $39,984 annually.
- Residency History: You must have resided in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18.
- Tax Filing: You must have filed your income tax return for the previous year.
How to Apply for the GIS Allowance
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the GIS Allowance in the following ways:
- By Phone: Contact the Service Canada toll-free number at 1 800 277 9914.
- Online: Apply through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website. You will need your Social Insurance Number (SIN), personal information, and banking details to complete the online application.
- In-Person: Visit your local Service Canada office to obtain and submit a paper application form.
Important Note: It’s crucial to apply for the GIS Allowance before you turn 65. This ensures you receive the benefit as soon as you become eligible. The processing time for applications typically takes two to three months.
GIS Allowance Amounts in 2024
The amount you receive through the GIS Allowance depends on your marital status and total income. The benefit amount is adjusted quarterly to keep pace with changes in the cost of living. Here’s a breakdown of the maximum monthly GIS Allowance amounts for 2024:
- Single: Up to $1,057 for individuals with a net annual income below $21,456.
- Married/Common-Law (Both receive full OAS pension): Up to $636.26 per person if their combined income is below $28,320 annually.
- Married/Common-Law (One receives OAS, one receives GIS Allowance): Up to $1,057.01 per person for the GIS recipient if their combined income is below $51,408 annually (applicable if one partner does not receive an OAS pension or Allowance).
- Married/Common-Law (One receives full OAS pension, one receives Allowance): Up to $1,343.94 combined monthly benefit if one spouse receives the full OAS pension and the other receives the GIS Allowance, and their total yearly income is less than $39,648.
Additional Considerations
- Leaving Canada: If you plan to be outside of Canada for more than six months in a row, your GIS payments may be temporarily suspended.
- GIS and OAS Clawback: If your net income exceeds a certain threshold, a portion of your GIS and OAS benefits may be recovered by the government through taxes.