For many Canadian seniors relying on federal support, the upcoming deposit of the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) represents a crucial moment for financial planning.
Understanding when the funds arrive, who qualifies and how much support is coming is key to staying ahead. This article breaks it all down in clear, SEO-friendly terms while retaining every essential fact.
What is the GIS?
The GIS is a monthly, non-taxable benefit designed for seniors who already receive the Old Age Security (OAS) pension and have low income. It is intended to provide additional support to help cover everyday costs like housing, food and utilities.
The amount is calculated based on the recipient’s and their spouse’s income and is indexed to inflation annually.
Payment Date: November 26, 2025
For the 2025 payment cycle, the GIS deposit is scheduled for Wednesday, November 26, 2025 for most eligible seniors.
If you receive payments by direct deposit, the funds should appear on or around that date. If you receive a cheque, postal delays may apply.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for GIS, you must meet several criteria:
- Be 65 years of age or older.
- Receive the OAS pension.
- Have a low income as defined by the program thresholds, which differ by marital status and whether a spouse also receives OAS or GIS.
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident living in Canada.
- File your annual tax return because the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) uses your prior year’s income to determine your GIS amount.
How Much Can You Receive?
The exact GIS payment varies by income and marital status. Recent reports indicate a boost to up to approximately CAD $1,395 per month for the maximum GIS payment, effective November 2025.
For many low-income seniors, this helps ensure a more stable monthly income and enhances their ability to afford essential living costs.
Why This November Payment Matters
- Timing alignment – The GIS payment arrives in the same month as other key benefits such as the OAS pension, helping seniors coordinate budgets and expenses.
- Inflation relief – With living costs rising, the boost in the GIS amount offers additional support in a financially challenging environment.
- No extra application needed – For many recipients already enrolled in OAS and with their tax returns filed, the payment is processed automatically.
What You Should Do Ahead of the Payment
- If you receive benefits by direct deposit, ensure your banking information is up to date with CRA and Service Canada to avoid delays.
- If you have not filed your 2024 tax return, do so as soon as possible—eligibility and payment amounts depend on reported income.
- If you are not yet enrolled or unsure whether you qualify for GIS, check your status via your Service Canada account or contact CRA for guidance.
- Be prepared for the deposit on or around November 26; handle essential payments accordingly (rent, utilities, prescriptions).
For eligible Canadian seniors, the GIS payment arriving on November 26, 2025 represents a vital source of income support.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, ensuring your filings are in order, and preparing for the deposit date, you can make the most of this benefit.
With the boost in payment levels and coordinated timing with other programs, this benefit plays a key role in helping seniors meet everyday costs confidently.
FAQs
Will I receive the GIS payment automatically or do I need to apply?
You do not need to apply separately if you are already receiving OAS, have filed your tax return and meet the eligibility requirements. The payment is typically processed automatically.
What happens if I receive the payment after November 26, 2025?
If you receive payments by cheque, mail delays may cause the arrival to be slightly later than November 26. Ensure your address and banking details are up to date to minimise delays.
Does the GIS amount remain the same every month?
No. While eligible recipients receive the payment monthly, the exact amount can vary based on your prior year’s income, marital status and any changes in household circumstances.