Canadian seniors and near-retirees often hear about the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and the Allowance—two key supports that help low-income households.
For September 2025, the Allowance linked to GIS can pay up to $1,395.73 per month for eligible applicants aged 60–64.
Below is a clear guide to the amount, eligibility, and the payment date, with simple steps to help you qualify and get paid on time.
What Is The GIS-Linked Allowance?
The Allowance is part of the Old Age Security (OAS) program. It supports people aged 60–64 whose spouse or common-law partner receives OAS and GIS.
The goal is to bridge income until the younger partner turns 65 and becomes eligible for OAS/GIS themselves.
Importantly, GIS, the Allowance, and the Allowance for the Survivor are non-taxable, so you don’t pay income tax on these specific benefits.
Amount For September 2025
For the July–September 2025 quarter, the maximum monthly Allowance is $1,395.73.
OAS-related benefits (including GIS and the Allowance) are indexed quarterly to inflation, so the payable amounts can adjust each quarter.
A fresh update typically applies starting in October, which may slightly change the amount for the October–December 2025 quarter.
Eligibility Rules You Must Meet
You may qualify for the $1,395.73 Allowance if you:
- Are 60–64 years old;
- Live in Canada and meet OAS residency rules;
- Have a spouse/common-law partner who receives OAS and GIS;
- Have combined annual income under the quarterly limit set for July–September 2025 (household threshold applies for the Allowance).
Notes:
- If you are 65+ and on OAS, your top-up is called GIS (not the Allowance). GIS amounts and income cut-offs vary based on marital status and whether your partner also receives OAS/GIS.
- Your most recent tax return (and updated income info) is used to assess eligibility. If your income has dropped recently, you can report a significant income change so your benefits reflect your current situation sooner.
Payment Date And How You’ll Be Paid
OAS, GIS, and the Allowance share the same monthly pay schedule. For September 2025, the deposit date is September 25, 2025.
- Direct Deposit: Fastest method—funds usually appear on the day.
- Cheques: May arrive later due to mail handling and local delivery times.
Key Facts At A Glance (September 2025)
Benefit (Jul–Sep 2025) | Who It’s For | Max Monthly Amount | Income Basis | September 2025 Pay Date |
---|---|---|---|---|
Allowance (GIS-Linked) | Age 60–64, spouse/partner on OAS + GIS | $1,395.73 | Combined household income threshold (quarterly) | September 25, 2025 |
GIS (Single 65+) | OAS pensioner who is single/widowed/divorced | Varies by quarter | Individual income threshold | September 25, 2025 |
OAS Pension | Most Canadians 65+ meeting residency rules | Varies by age band | Clawback applies above set income | September 25, 2025 |
How To Apply Or Update Details
- Apply Online Or By Mail: If you’re 60–64 and meet the criteria, file an Allowance application.
- Report Income Changes: If your household income falls, submit the appropriate income update so your payment can adjust.
- Set Up Direct Deposit: Ensures faster, more reliable payment on the published pay date.
If you’re 60–64 and your spouse or partner receives OAS and GIS, the Allowance can deliver up to $1,395.73 in September 2025—and it’s non-taxable.
Make sure you meet residency rules, stay under the household income threshold, and set up direct deposit to receive your payment on September 25, 2025.
Because these benefits are indexed quarterly, keep an eye on the October 2025 update for any amount changes in the next quarter.
FAQs
Who Gets The $1,395.73 Allowance?
People aged 60–64 living in Canada whose spouse/common-law partner receives OAS and GIS, and whose combined household income is below the quarterly threshold for July–September 2025.
Is The Allowance Taxable?
No. GIS, the Allowance, and the Allowance for the Survivor are non-taxable benefits—recipients don’t pay income tax on these payments.
What Is The Payment Date For September 2025?
The OAS/GIS/Allowance payment date for September 2025 is September 25, 2025. Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive the funds.