Are you a senior or retiree looking for information about federal government pensions and benefits?
The Government of Canada has a number of programs that give payments and benefits to older Canadians. In some cases, the programs also provide for the spouses and children of seniors and retirees. These programs include pension plans, programs for low-income seniors and benefits for survivors. Below is an overview of the programs, including who they’re for and where to find more information.
Who Qualifies?
In most cases, you will need to apply for income or benefits from a government program. If you qualify, how much money you get may depend on your income. Most programs start at age 65, but some can start earlier. To qualify for almost all government programs, you first need to file a personal income tax return.
Canada Pension Plan
The Canada Pension Plan, or CPP, is a monthly taxable benefit. It replaces part of your income when you retire. If you qualify, you’ll receive CPP for the rest of your life.
Where can I find information?
Visit the CPP homepage to find out more, such as:
- If you qualify
- How much money you can expect each month
- When and how to apply
- At what age you can start receiving CPP
- How long it takes to get your first cheque
Other CPP benefits may also be available to you, including:
- Post-retirement benefit
- Disability pension
- Post-retirement disability benefit
- Survivor's pension
- Children's benefit
- Death benefit
Old Age Security Program
The Old Age Security (OAS) program is the Government of Canada's largest pension program. The OAS pension is a monthly payment for eligible seniors. You may need to apply to receive it.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the OAS site for information such as:
- How old you have to be to receive the OAS pension
- When and how to apply
- How much money you will receive each month
- How to defer your OAS pension
- How long it takes to get your first cheque
Old Age Security Program Benefits
Along with the OAS pension, there are three types of OAS benefits:
- Guaranteed Income Supplement
- Allowance
- Allowance for the Survivor
Guaranteed Income Supplement
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly non-taxable benefit. It is for people who get the Old Age Security pension and have a low income.
Allowance
If you get the GIS and your spouse is between 60 and 64, he or she can apply for a separate benefit called the Allowance. Your spouse can apply for the Allowance up to 12 months before he or she turns 60.
Allowance for the Survivor
The Allowance for the Survivor is a benefit for people aged 60 to 64 who have a low income, live in Canada, and whose spouse or common-law partner has died.
