The Allowance is a non-taxable payment you can get if:

  • you are age 60 to 64
  • you live in Canada
  • your spouse or common-law partner get Guaranteed Income supplement (GIS)
  • your combined annual income is less than $34,704

Find out if you are eligible.

Why you may have to apply

If you were in receipt of the Allowance and your spouse or common-law partner has passed away, you will be automatically converted to the Allowance for the Survivor.

When to apply

You should apply for the Allowance 6 to 11 months before you turn 60.

When payments start

The Allowance payments will begin during one of the following months, whichever is latest:

  • the month after you meet the eligibility requirements
  • the month after you turn 60
  • the month your spouse or common-law partner becomes entitled to the GIS, or
  • up to 11 months before to the date we received your application (if you applied after you turn 60)

Allowance pension amount

The combined income of you and your spouse or common-law partner will determine how much you could receive.

 

source: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/old-age-security/guaranteed-income-supplement/allowance.html

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Discover how to maximize your tax-free government relief with complete CRA details on the newly launched Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB). Learn about updated 2026 eligibility rules, enhanced quarterly payout schedules, and maximum income limits. Read our article Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit 2026: Eligibility & Payment Schedule, at taxservicecanada.ca.
 
Never miss an Old Age Security payment by bookmarking our dedicated 2026 OAS Payment Schedule page today. Managing your retirement budget is much easier when you know exactly when your funds will arrive in your account. By saving this link, you’ll have instant, one-click access to the most up-to-date distribution dates and any schedule adjustments throughout the year.

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It was created to provide general pension information only.