Protecting your Privacy

Your privacy is protected by law.

The Old Age Security Act and Regulations ensure that only specific agencies authorized by the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development are entitled to review the relevant parts of your records. Personal information in your file cannot be given to other agencies or individuals without your consent.

The Access to Information Act also prevents the release of information about you without your consent. There are two exceptions: information can be released if it has already been made public, or if the release is allowed under the Privacy Act. The Government of Canada can use information only for the purpose for which it was collected, unless it is using it to comply with a warrant or subpoena or to enforce a law.

Can I have access to information on my file?

Yes. You have the right to review information about you that is kept on file by the Government of Canada. To help citizens access information about themselves, the Government publishes the document called Info Source: Sources of Federal Government Information every year.

To review this information, you must fill out an information request form. This form, as well as copies of Info Source: Sources of Federal Government Information, are available at Service Canada Centres and other government offices. These documents are also available at public libraries, at most rural post offices, in Canadian missions abroad, and on the Internet. You can find the Info Source Web site.

How can I correct inaccurate or incomplete information or provide information not previously disclosed?

You can come forward and correct inaccurate or incomplete information or disclose information that was not previously disclosed. If you make a disclosure before any investigation has started, you may be exempted from a penalty and potential prosecution. If you would like to make a disclosure, call Service Canada at 1 800 O‑Canada (1‑800‑622‑6232) or visit a Service Canada Centre for help to begin the process.