The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) remains one of the most important financial assistance programs available to low-income seniors in Canada. With the rising cost of living in 2025, it’s more important than ever to understand the latest updates — especially regarding eligibility, payment amounts, key dates, and application steps for the GIS benefit.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about the May 2025 GIS payment, how to ensure you receive it, and how to maximize the amount.
Table of Contents
GIS Payment Date for May 2025: Mark Your Calendar
When Will the May GIS Payment Arrive?
The official payment date for the May 2025 GIS benefit is Monday, May 28, 2025.
If you’ve set up direct deposit through Service Canada, you should see the payment appear in your account on that day. For those receiving cheques by mail, allow a few extra business days for delivery depending on your location.
Quick Summary of the May 2025 GIS Payment
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Date | Monday, May 28, 2025 |
| Max Payment (Single Senior) | $1,086.88 |
| Max Payment (Per Eligible Spouse) | $654.23 |
| Eligibility Age | 65 years or older |
| Income Limit (Single) | Under $22,056 annually |
| Income Limit (Couple) | Under $29,136 combined annually |
| Tax Filing Deadline | Tuesday, May 30, 2025 |
| Official Info Source | Canada.ca – GIS |
What Is GIS and Why It Matters in 2025
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is a non-taxable monthly benefit offered to low-income seniors already receiving the Old Age Security (OAS) pension. It’s designed to help retirees with limited income afford basic living expenses.
Since its introduction in 1967, GIS has supported tens of thousands of older Canadians — and in 2025, with increased financial pressures, it continues to be a lifeline for many seniors.
Upcoming GIS Payment Dates in 2025
Here are the remaining GIS payment dates for 2025 so you can plan ahead:
- April 28, 2025
- May 28, 2025
- June 26, 2025
- July 29, 2025
- August 27, 2025
- September 25, 2025
Marking these dates can help with budgeting and prevent missed payments.
Who Qualifies for GIS in 2025?
To qualify for GIS, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be 65 years or older
- Be a resident of Canada
- Be receiving Old Age Security (OAS)
- Have an income below the annual threshold
GIS Income Limits and Maximum Payments for May–June 2025
Your eligibility and payment amount depend on both your income and marital status. Here’s a breakdown:
| Situation | Max Annual Income | Max Monthly GIS |
|---|---|---|
| Single, Widowed, or Divorced | Under $22,056 | $1,086.88 |
| Married (Spouse receives OAS) | Under $29,136 (combined) | $654.23 |
| Married (Spouse receives Allowance) | Under $40,800 (combined) | $654.23 |
| Married (Spouse not receiving OAS) | Under $52,848 (combined) | $1,086.88 |
Note: Income includes CPP, pensions, employment, and investment earnings.
How Is Your GIS Amount Calculated?
Your GIS payment is based on:
- Net income from the previous year’s tax return
- Marital status
- Whether your spouse receives OAS or GIS
If your income situation has changed (e.g., retirement, separation, loss of spouse), you can request a reassessment based on your current income.
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How to Apply for GIS in 2025
If you’re not automatically enrolled, here’s how to apply:
Online Application
- Log in to your My Service Canada Account
- Fill out and submit form ISP-3025
- Upload required ID and documents
By Mail
- Download and fill out form ISP-3025 or ISP-3550 (if applying for OAS and GIS together)
- Include your proof of income, residency, and Social Insurance Number
- Mail the application to your regional Service Canada office
Common GIS Application Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the May 30 tax deadline — this can delay your payment
- Reporting incorrect income — all sources must be disclosed accurately
- Not updating your life status — marriage, divorce, relocation, or death of a spouse must be reported to avoid payment disruptions
How to Maximize Your GIS Benefits
- Set up direct deposit to avoid late or missing payments
- Report life changes or income drops as soon as possible
- Apply early — GIS allows for up to 11 months of retroactive payments
- Request a reassessment if your current income is lower than last year’s
Real-Life Example: How GIS Helped Paul From Alberta
Paul, a 68-year-old retiree in Alberta, saw his annual income fall to $21,000 in 2025. After receiving OAS, he applied for GIS and was approved for the maximum benefit of $1,086.88 per month. This extra income gave him the financial cushion he needed to cover essentials without stress.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead with GIS in 2025
GIS remains a crucial support program for eligible Canadian seniors. With the May 28, 2025 payment coming up, now is the time to review your eligibility, income status, and application. Whether you’re a new applicant or currently receiving benefits, keeping your information up to date ensures you get the full support you deserve.