Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has issued a one time additional payment to pensioners who qualified for OAS and GIS.
- $300 for seniors eligible for the Old Age Security pension, and
- an additional $200 for seniors eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement
This measure will give a total of $500 to seniors who receive both the Old Age Security pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement, and will help them cover increased costs caused by COVID-19.
What is the eligibility
The one-time payment for seniors is available to individuals who are eligible to receive the Old Age Security pension or the Guaranteed Income Supplement in June 2020.
When an individual defers the Old Age Security pension in exchange for a higher monthly amount, they are not eligible for the pension, and therefore they are not eligible to receive this one-time tax-free payment.
When do you get paid
A one-time separate payment was issued during the week of July 6, 2020. If you reside in Canada, you should have received the payment that week. If you reside outside Canada, the payment was issued in July, but international postal disruptions might have delayed the receipt of cheques.
If an individual became entitled to an Old Age Security pension or income-tested benefit retroactively to June 2020 (or earlier), the payment will be issued in September 2020.
What if you did not receive your one time payment?
The funds for the one-time payment are not available after September 30, 2020. In order to meet the distribution deadline, individuals who may be eligible for OAS or income-tested benefits in June 2020 needed to have their application processed or file in order before September 2020 to receive the one-time tax-free payment for seniors.
Method of payment
Payment amount
Everyone will receive one payment.
If you only receive the Old Age Security pension, you will receive a separate single payment of $300.
If you receive the Old Age Security pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement, you will receive a separate single payment of $500.
If you receive the Allowance or the Allowance for the Survivor, you will receive a separate single payment of $500.
Spouse and common-law partner
You and your spouse or common-law partner will each receive $500 if you are both receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement.
For couples where one partner receives the Guaranteed Income Supplement and one partner (between the age of 60 and 64) receives the Allowance, the partner receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement will receive $500 and the partner receiving the Allowance will receive $500.
Allowance for the Survivor
Recipients of the Allowance for the Survivor will receive the $500 for the Guaranteed Income Supplement.
Non-taxable payment
The one-time payment for seniors is non-taxable. You will receive the full amount (no withholds). You will not receive a tax slip and you will not have to report this amount in your 2020 tax return.
source: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/notice-covid-19/one-time-payment.html
If you want to learn more about the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB), including who qualifies, how much you could receive, and when payments are issued, visit Tax Service Canada’s Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Guide. This comprehensive resource explains the eligibility requirements, payment amounts for individuals and families, application details for new residents, and important CRA payment dates. With the CGEB replacing the GST/HST Credit in July 2026 and providing increased support to millions of Canadians, staying informed can help ensure you receive every benefit you are entitled to.
If you receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), now is the time to ensure your benefits continue without interruption. GIS eligibility is reviewed annually, and failing to file your income tax return or complete any required renewal steps could result in your payments being reduced or stopped starting in July 2026. Service Canada uses your most recent income information to determine your eligibility and payment amount for the 2026–2027 benefit year. To avoid delays or disruptions to your monthly GIS payments, review the renewal requirements today. Visit the GIS Renewal page for a complete guide and important updates.
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. Stay organized and gain peace of mind by keeping this essential resource right at your fingertips. Bookmark us now and ensure you’re always prepared for your upcoming monthly payments!
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