The Guaranteed Income Supplement helps low-income seniors. Here's everything you need to get every dollar you're entitled to.
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly, tax-free payment added on top of Old Age Security for low-income Canadians aged 65 and older. In 2026, the maximum GIS for a single person is $1,065.47/month. Many seniors who qualify don't apply and miss out on thousands of dollars each year.
| Situation | Max Monthly GIS (2026) | Max Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Single, widowed, or divorced | $1,065.47 | $12,785.64 |
| Married/partner, both receiving OAS | $641.35/each | $7,696.20/each |
| Married/partner, only one receives OAS | $1,065.47 | $12,785.64 |
| Situation | Income Limit (Annual) | GIS Reduces By |
|---|---|---|
| Single person | $21,624 | $1 per $2 of income |
| Both spouses on OAS + GIS | $28,560 combined | $1 per $4 of income |
| One spouse on OAS, one not | $46,128 combined | $1 per $4 of income |
GIS is based on your income from the previous calendar year. The following are NOT counted:
Income that IS counted includes CPP, RRIF withdrawals, employment income above exemptions, rental income, and investment income.
Most new OAS recipients are automatically assessed for GIS. However, you must file your annual income tax return each year to continue receiving GIS. If you are not automatically enrolled:
If you are aged 60-64 and your spouse receives OAS + GIS, you may qualify for the Allowance — up to $1,381.90/month in 2026. The Allowance for Survivor (for widows/widowers aged 60-64) is up to $1,647.34/month — one of the most underutilized benefits in Canada.
KOHO charges zero monthly fees, has no e-transfer fees, and makes direct deposit for GIS, OAS, and CPP simple and instant. Many Canadian seniors on fixed incomes trust KOHO because it never nickel-and-dimes them.
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