Canada offers different financial support programs for seniors with low income. One of the most important is the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and its related Allowance.
In September 2025, the maximum Allowance payment has been confirmed at $1,395.73 per month. This article explains who can receive it, what the eligibility rules are, when payments will arrive, and why this benefit is so important.
What is GIS and Allowance?
- GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement): A monthly payment for seniors aged 65 and above who already receive Old Age Security (OAS) and have a low income.
- Allowance: A benefit for people aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or common-law partner already receives GIS.
Both benefits are designed to provide extra financial help to seniors and near-seniors who struggle with rising living costs.
Key Payment Details – September 2025
The table below shows the latest confirmed amounts for GIS and Allowance in September 2025:
| Benefit Type | Age / Situation | Annual Income Limit | Maximum Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| GIS – Single, Widowed, Divorced | 65+ | Less than $22,272 | $1,097.75 |
| GIS – With Spouse (partner gets OAS) | 65+ | Combined income under $29,424 | $660.78 |
| GIS – With Spouse (partner gets Allowance) | 65+ | Combined income under $41,184 | $660.78 |
| Allowance – Age 60–64 (partner gets GIS & OAS) | 60–64 | Combined income under $41,184 | $1,395.73 |
The Allowance is the highest single amount here, offering $1,395.73 per month for eligible people aged 60–64.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for Guaranteed Income Supplement or the Allowance in September 2025, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident.
- For GIS: Be 65 years or older, already receiving OAS, and meet the income limit.
- For Allowance: Be 60–64 years old, have a spouse/partner who gets GIS, and keep your combined income below the required threshold.
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18.
Payment Date in September 2025
- Payments are monthly and usually go directly to your bank account if you have set up direct deposit.
- For September 2025, the payment is scheduled for September 25, 2025.
Why the $1,395 Allowance is Important
This benefit is vital because it supports people before they turn 65. Many individuals aged 60–64 are not yet eligible for OAS or GIS but still face financial struggles.
The $1,395.73 allowance gives them crucial monthly support to manage rent, groceries, and other daily costs.
Other Related Benefits
Alongside Guaranteed Income Supplement and Allowance, seniors may also get:
- Old Age Security (OAS) – Up to $734.95/month for ages 65–74.
- OAS for 75+ – Up to $808.45/month.
- Combined OAS + GIS can provide more than $1,900 per month for low-income seniors.
Things to Remember
- Benefit amounts change every few months because of cost-of-living adjustments.
- If your income increases, your payments may reduce or stop.
- Always keep your income and marital details updated with Service Canada to avoid payment issues.
In September 2025, eligible Canadians aged 60–64 can receive up to $1,395.73 per month under the GIS Allowance program if their partner is on GIS and their income is within the limit.
This allowance plays a key role in supporting low-income households before full senior benefits begin at age 65. For many families, it provides financial stability and relief in challenging times.
FAQs
Will I get the full $1,395 even if my income is slightly higher?
No. The amount goes down if your income is higher than the threshold, and payments stop once you cross the maximum limit.
Do I need to apply for the Allowance?
Yes. In most cases, you must apply through Service Canada unless you already get related benefits and are enrolled automatically.
Can the $1,395 amount change in 2026?
Yes. The government reviews payments regularly and adjusts them for inflation, so amounts may increase or decrease in 2026.