Monthly financial assistance for low-income Alberta seniors aged 65 and over. Eligibility, amounts, and how to apply for the Alberta Seniors Benefit program.
The Alberta Seniors Benefit (ASB) is a provincial program that provides monthly financial assistance to low-income Albertans aged 65 and older. It is administered by Alberta Seniors, Community and Social Services and is designed to supplement federal income programs like OAS and GIS for seniors who still face financial hardship.
The benefit is not taxable and does not affect your federal GIS or other income-tested benefits at the federal level.
Benefit amounts are income-tested and depend on your annual income and living situation:
| Living Situation | Maximum Monthly Benefit | Maximum Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Single senior living independently | up to $425/month | up to $5,100 |
| Senior couple (both eligible) | up to $714/month combined | up to $8,568 |
| Senior living in a lodge or supported housing | Varies — may include accommodation supplement | — |
Amounts are reduced as income increases and are phased out completely once your annual income exceeds approximately $29,630 (single) or $48,048 (couple). Thresholds are adjusted annually.
To qualify for the Alberta Seniors Benefit you must:
Seniors living in long-term care facilities may also be eligible — contact Alberta Seniors for details on care facility rates.
The Alberta Seniors Benefit is part of a broader suite of Alberta senior support programs:
| Program | What It Provides |
|---|---|
| Alberta Seniors Benefit | Monthly income supplement |
| Special Needs Assistance for Seniors | One-time grants for unexpected expenses (dental, medical equipment, etc.) |
| Dental and Optical Assistance for Seniors | Subsidized dental and vision care |
| Alberta Blue Cross (seniors) | Prescription drug coverage for seniors 65+ |
| Lodge Assistance Program | Subsidy for low-income seniors in lodges |
When your Alberta Seniors Benefit arrives, make sure it lands in an account with no fees. KOHO is free, earns cash back, and has tools to help you manage your income. Use code 45ET55JSYA for a bonus.
Get KOHO Free — Use Code 45ET55JSYAReview the income thresholds and residency requirements. The Alberta government updates thresholds each year, so check the current figures at alberta.ca/alberta-seniors-benefit.
Download the Alberta Seniors Benefit application form from alberta.ca or pick one up at an Alberta government office. You'll need to provide your SIN, proof of age, proof of Alberta residency, and consent to verify your income with CRA.
Mail or deliver your application to Alberta Seniors. Processing typically takes 4–8 weeks. If approved, your first payment will be retroactive to your application date or your 65th birthday if you applied shortly after turning 65.
The ASB is renewed each year based on your previous year's tax return. You'll receive a renewal notice in the spring. Ensure you file your taxes on time to avoid interruptions to your benefit.
Most Alberta seniors combine the ASB with federal programs. Here's a typical income picture for a low-income Alberta senior in 2025:
| Income Source | Annual Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| OAS (age 65, full benefit) | $8,618 |
| GIS (single, low income) | up to $11,582 |
| Alberta Seniors Benefit | up to $5,100 |
| Canada Carbon Rebate (AB) | $900 |
| Total | ~$26,200 |