The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly, non-taxable payment from the Government of Canada designed to help low-income seniors who already receive the Old Age Security (OAS) pension.
It provides extra financial support to cover essential living costs such as housing, groceries, and utilities.
The GIS payment is reviewed every July, but monthly amounts can vary depending on income and family status. For September 2025, eligible recipients can expect up to $1,097 if they meet the program’s income and residency requirements.
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How the September 2025 GIS Payment Works
Key Payment Date
- Deposit Date: The September 2025 GIS payment is scheduled for Friday, September 27, 2025, if you are enrolled for direct deposit with Service Canada.
- Paper cheques may take a few extra business days to arrive.
Maximum Monthly Amount
- Up to $1,097 is the maximum monthly payment for single seniors, widows/widowers, or those whose spouse/common-law partner does not receive OAS or the Allowance.
- Couples may receive different amounts depending on whether both or only one partner receives OAS/GIS.
(Exact amounts are indexed quarterly and adjusted for inflation, so the September 2025 amount reflects the July 2025 rate update.)
Eligibility Requirements for the September 2025 GIS
To qualify for the September payment, you must meet all of the following:
- Age & OAS Status: Be 65 or older and already receiving the Old Age Security pension.
- Canadian Residency: Must be a legal resident of Canada.
- Low Income Thresholds: Your annual net income must be below the limits set by the federal government: SituationMaximum Annual Income (2025) to QualifySingle, widowed or divorcedAbout $21,624Couple – both receiving OASAbout $28,560 combinedCouple – only one receiving OASAbout $51,840 combined
(Income limits are reviewed each July; these are approximate thresholds for the July 2025–June 2026 benefit year.)
- Tax Filing: You must have filed your 2024 income tax return, as Service Canada uses this information to calculate your GIS.
How to Receive the $1,097 GIS Payment
Automatic Renewal
- Most seniors are automatically enrolled and do not need to reapply each year if they file their taxes on time.
- If you’re already receiving GIS, your September 2025 payment will be deposited automatically.
New Applicants
If you turned 65 recently or your income has changed, you can:
- Apply online through My Service Canada Account, or
- Submit a paper application (Form ISP-3025) to Service Canada.
How GIS Works with Other Benefits
- Non-taxable: GIS payments do not count as taxable income on your tax return.
- Stacking with Other Programs: You can receive GIS alongside other provincial/territorial seniors’ supplements, which may increase your total monthly support.
- Impact on Other Benefits: Because GIS is based on income, any increase in your income from pensions, RRSP withdrawals, or investments could reduce your GIS amount in the next payment cycle.
Tips to Ensure You Don’t Miss the September Payment
- File Taxes on Time: Always submit your income tax return by April 30, even if you have no income, to avoid delays.
- Sign Up for Direct Deposit: This ensures the payment is in your bank account on the scheduled date.
- Report Changes Promptly: Inform Service Canada if your marital status or income changes to avoid overpayments or clawbacks.
Why the September 2025 Payment Matters
With the rising cost of food, housing, and healthcare, the $1,097 GIS payment provides crucial financial relief to Canada’s most vulnerable seniors.
Combined with OAS and other provincial benefits, this payment can help older Canadians maintain stability and cover essential expenses.
Bottom Line
If you are a low-income senior receiving Old Age Security, mark September 25, 2025, on your calendar.
That is when the next $1,097 Guaranteed Income Supplement payment will arrive for eligible recipients.
Make sure your taxes are filed and your direct deposit information is updated so you receive your full benefit without delay.