The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly, non-taxable payment from the Government of Canada that supports low-income seniors who already receive Old Age Security (OAS).
It’s designed to help cover everyday essentials—housing, groceries, utilities, and other must-pay bills—so older Canadians can maintain basic financial stability.
September 2025 At A Glance
Payment review cycle: GIS amounts are updated each July and can change during the year based on income and family status.
Maximum for September 2025: Eligible recipients may receive up to $1,097 if they meet the program’s income and residency rules.
Deposit date: If you use direct deposit, the September 2025 GIS is scheduled for Friday, September 27, 2025. Paper cheques can take a few extra business days.
Who can get the maximum? The top monthly rate typically applies to single seniors, widows/widowers, or those whose spouse/common-law partner does not receive OAS or the Allowance.
Couples receive different amounts depending on whether both partners or only one partner is on OAS/GIS. (Rates are indexed quarterly for inflation; September reflects the July 2025 update.)
Eligibility For The September 2025 GIS
To be paid in September, you must satisfy all of the following:
- Age & OAS status: Be 65+ and already receiving OAS.
- Residency: Be a legal resident of Canada.
- Income limits (2025): Your annual net income must be below the federal thresholds for the July 2025–June 2026 benefit year:
- Single / widowed / divorced: about $21,624
- Couple – both on OAS: about $28,560 combined
- Couple – only one on OAS: about $51,840 combined
- Tax filing: File your 2024 tax return so Service Canada can calculate your GIS automatically.
How To Make Sure You Receive The September Payment
Automatic Renewal
If you already get GIS and you file taxes on time, your benefits generally renew automatically.
Your September 2025 amount should be deposited without a new application.
New or Changing Situations
Turned 65 recently or had a drop in income? You can:
- Apply online through My Service Canada Account, or
- Send Form ISP-3025 (paper application) to Service Canada.
How GIS Interacts With Other Benefits
- Non-taxable: GIS does not count as taxable income.
- Can stack with provincial/territorial supports: You can receive GIS alongside provincial/territorial seniors’ supplements, potentially increasing your monthly support.
- Income changes matter: New income from pensions, RRSP withdrawals, work, or investments may reduce future GIS payments because the program is income-tested.
Practical Tips To Avoid Delays Or Clawbacks
- File by April 30: Submit your tax return each year—even with no income—to prevent interruptions.
- Use direct deposit: Ensures money lands in your bank account on the scheduled date.
- Report changes quickly: Tell Service Canada about marital status or income changes to avoid overpayments and later recoveries.
Why This Month’s Payment Matters
With rising costs for food, rent, and healthcare, the up to $1,097 in September 2025 is meaningful support for seniors with limited means.
Combined with OAS and local supplements, GIS helps older Canadians stay current on essential expenses and maintain a more secure footing.
The September 2025 GIS delivers targeted, non-taxable help to seniors who meet OAS, residency, and income criteria, with deposits expected on September 27, 2025 for those using direct deposit.
Keep your taxes filed, banking details updated, and personal information current with Service Canada to receive the right amount on time.
If you’ve just turned 65 or had a change in income, apply or update your information promptly so you don’t miss out on the support you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Is the September 2025 GIS payment taxable?
No. GIS is non-taxable, so it does not increase your taxable income or affect your tax bracket.
Why might my GIS amount differ from someone else’s?
GIS depends on marital status and net income. Couples and singles have different thresholds, and any income changes can alter your payment during the next cycle.
What if my cheque hasn’t arrived by the end of September?
Allow a few business days after September 27, 2025 for mail delivery. If it still hasn’t arrived—or if your direct deposit is missing—contact Service Canada to confirm your banking details and eligibility.