The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has officially approved a $1,395 Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) payment for November 2025, providing much-needed financial relief to low-income seniors across the country. This increase in the GIS benefit comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to help seniors manage rising living costs and maintain financial stability amid inflation and higher housing, food, and healthcare expenses.
The GIS payment is one of Canada’s most essential social support programs for retirees who depend primarily on the Old Age Security (OAS) pension. The new adjustment will raise the total monthly support for qualifying seniors starting in November 2025.
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Understanding the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly, tax-free payment offered to low-income seniors who already receive the Old Age Security (OAS) pension. Administered by the CRA, this program provides additional income support to help cover essential expenses such as groceries, rent, utilities, and medical costs.
Unlike the OAS, which is available to most seniors over 65, GIS eligibility is based on household income. The payment amount changes every quarter according to inflation and the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
With the latest update, the CRA has approved an increase that will bring up to $1,395 in additional financial support to eligible seniors for November 2025.
Why the $1,395 GIS Payment Was Approved
The CRA and the Department of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) have introduced the $1,395 GIS adjustment in response to the ongoing cost-of-living pressures faced by retired Canadians.
Between 2023 and 2025, the cost of essentials such as rent, groceries, and prescription medication has surged, leading the federal government to enhance its income-support measures for seniors.
The November 2025 GIS payment increase is designed to:
- Offset rising living costs caused by inflation.
- Ensure seniors can meet basic needs without financial stress.
- Support low-income retirees who rely heavily on government benefits as their main source of income.
November 2025 GIS Payment Amounts
The amount of GIS a senior receives depends on their marital status and annual income. Below is an overview of the estimated GIS payment amounts for November 2025 after the approved increase:
| Category | Monthly GIS Payment (Nov 2025) | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Single Senior | Up to $1,395 | +$225 |
| Married/Common-law (Both receive OAS) | Up to $925 each | +$180 |
| Married/Common-law (One receives OAS) | Up to $1,140 | +$210 |
These updated rates reflect adjustments based on inflation and are automatically applied for eligible seniors. The CRA will deposit the $1,395 GIS payment directly into recipients’ bank accounts starting in mid-November 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for the November 2025 GIS Payment
To qualify for the CRA $1,395 GIS payment approved for November 2025, recipients must meet certain requirements set by the federal government.
1. Age Requirement
You must be 65 years of age or older.
2. OAS Recipient
You must be receiving the Old Age Security (OAS) pension. The GIS cannot be paid to someone who doesn’t already receive OAS.
3. Income Threshold
Your annual income must fall below the maximum threshold set by the CRA. For 2025, the estimated income limits are as follows:
- Single seniors: Less than $21,624 per year.
- Married/common-law couples (both receiving OAS): Combined income less than $28,560.
- Married/common-law couples (one receiving OAS): Combined income less than $40,272.
4. Residency Requirement
You must be a resident of Canada and have lived in the country for at least 10 years after the age of 18.
If you already receive the GIS, the new payment amount will be applied automatically—no reapplication is needed.
When Will the $1,395 GIS Payment Be Deposited?
The CRA has confirmed that the $1,395 GIS payment will begin reaching eligible seniors’ accounts starting from November 27, 2025.
The payment schedule typically aligns with other OAS and GIS deposit dates, meaning most recipients will see both payments deposited together. Those who receive benefits via cheque may experience a short delay compared to direct deposit recipients.
To avoid delays, seniors are advised to:
- Verify their banking details in their CRA My Account.
- Ensure their tax returns for 2024 are filed and up to date.
- Keep their residency and marital information current with Service Canada.
How to Apply for the GIS
If you are not already receiving GIS but believe you qualify, you can apply in one of the following ways:
- Online through My Service Canada Account (MSCA): The simplest and fastest method to apply or renew your GIS.
- By mail: Complete the Application for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (ISP3025) form and mail it to Service Canada.
- Automatic Enrollment: Some seniors are automatically enrolled when they begin receiving OAS, depending on CRA’s available information.
If you apply late, you can still receive back payments for up to 11 months once approved.
What to Do If You Do Not Receive the Payment
If your GIS payment does not arrive by the end of November 2025, take the following steps:
- Wait at least 10 business days after the scheduled payment date.
- Check your CRA or Service Canada account for updates.
- Confirm that your tax filing and personal information are accurate.
- Contact Service Canada’s Old Age Security division to request assistance or trace your payment.
Additional Benefits for GIS Recipients
Seniors receiving the GIS may also qualify for several other benefits and programs, including:
- Allowance for the Survivor: For low-income individuals aged 60–64 whose spouse has passed away.
- Guaranteed Income Supplement Top-Up: For those with extremely low income.
- Provincial and Territorial Benefits: Additional rebates and credits such as housing, drug, and transportation subsidies.
These programs are designed to provide comprehensive support for vulnerable seniors across the country.
Key Takeaways
- The CRA has approved a $1,395 GIS payment for November 2025 to support low-income Canadian seniors.
- Payments begin on November 27, 2025, via direct deposit or cheque.
- Eligibility depends on age, income, and OAS status.
- No reapplication is needed for existing GIS recipients.
- Seniors should ensure their 2024 taxes are filed to avoid payment interruptions.
The $1,395 GIS payment approved for November 2025 offers vital financial relief for seniors who rely on fixed incomes. As inflation and living expenses continue to rise, this adjustment reaffirms the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable retirees and helping them maintain financial dignity.
By ensuring all eligible seniors receive this payment on time, the CRA continues to strengthen its support for Canada’s aging population and uphold the value of financial security in retirement.