The Government of Canada has rolled out a powerful update to the Survivor Allowance for 2025, offering up to $1,200 monthly (and in some cases more) for eligible Canadians ahead of the November payment.
This benefit is designed to support widows, widowers and surviving common-law partners aged 60-64, helping them bridge the income gap until they qualify for full retirement benefits.
Here’s everything you need to know: eligibility, payment amounts, how to apply, and why this update matters.
What Is the Survivor Allowance?
The Survivor Allowance is a federal benefit aimed at individuals aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or common-law partner has died and who meet other income and residency requirements.
It serves as a transitionary financial support until the recipient becomes eligible for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension at age 65 and possibly the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
In 2025, the allowance has been updated so that the maximum support is now around $1,200 per month, although many reports indicate amounts could reach up to $1,663 depending on income and other factors.
Eligibility Criteria – Are You Qualified?
To qualify for this Survivor Allowance, applicants must satisfy several key criteria:
- Age: Between 60 and 64 years old. Eligibility ends the month before you turn 65.
- Survivor status: You must be a widow or widower, or a surviving common-law partner whose spouse/partner has died, and you must not have remarried or entered a new common-law relationship.
- Residency: Must live in Canada and meet the residency requirement (typically at least 10 years of residence after age 18).
- Income test: Annual income must be below a specified threshold (reports suggest between CAD $35,000-$40,000, though the amount varies).
- Not already receiving other overlapping benefits: For example, you should not already be receiving OAS or other full survivor benefits that exclude this allowance.
Payment Amounts & November 2025 Update
Starting November 2025, the updated allowance offers stronger support for eligible survivors.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum monthly benefit | Up to CAD $1,200 (and in some cases up to $1,663) |
| Payment method | Most via direct deposit, cheques for some |
| Payment date | Scheduled near last business day of month (e.g., Nov 28, 2025) |
| Income-adjusted | Lower income → full amount; higher income → reduced or ineligible |
| Duration of benefit | Until the month before you turn 65, then transition to OAS/GIS |
The exact amount you receive will depend on your prior year’s income and whether you meet all eligibility criteria. Officials stress that survivors should apply early to ensure payment isn’t delayed.
How to Apply
Applying for the Survivor Allowance involves a few clear steps:
- Gather required documents: Valid ID, proof of death of spouse/partner, proof of your residence, most recent tax return (to show income), and any partner’s contribution history if required.
- Complete the application: You can apply online via the My Service Canada Account portal, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada centre.
- Set up direct deposit: To receive payments quickly, provide banking details early.
- Report changes: If your marital status, income, or residency changes, you must inform Service Canada to avoid overpayment or eligibility loss.
- Monitor your claim status: Use your account to check the status of your application.
Why This Update Matters
This enhanced allowance is a critical financial safety net. Losing a partner often means a sudden drop in income and increased living costs. By updating the benefit to around $1,200+ per month, the government aims to:
- Prevent widowed Canadians aged 60-64 from falling into poverty
- Provide income stability during the gap before traditional retirement benefits kick in
- Ensure quicker, smoother payments pending OAS eligibility
For survivors, being aware of the updated allowance, applying promptly, and ensuring all criteria are met can make a big difference in financial comfort.
If you are a Canadian, aged between 60 and 64, and have lost your spouse or common-law partner, the 2025 Survivor Allowance update gives you a valuable opportunity to receive up to $1,200 or more per month as of November.
The key steps: check you meet the eligibility requirements, gather your documents, apply early, and ensure you stay compliant with any ongoing reporting. This benefit is more than just a payment—it’s a lifeline to help stabilize your finances during a challenging transition.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Survivor Allowance?
You may qualify if you are a Canadian resident aged 60-64, your spouse or common-law partner has died, you have not remarried or become a new partner, and your income falls below the threshold.
When is the November 2025 payment scheduled?
The payment is typically deposited near the end of the month—reports cite November 28, 2025 as the scheduled date for many recipients.
How much can I get and is the amount fixed?
The maximum is around CAD $1,200 (and in some reports up to $1,663), but your actual amount is adjusted based on your income. Higher income may reduce or disqualify you from receiving the full amount.