Enhancement to the Guaranteed Income Supplement

On June 6, 2011, the Government of Canada introduced a new measure in the Budget to enhance the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), the Allowance (ALW), and the Allowance for the Survivor (ALWS) for seniors with little or no income other than these benefits.

Eligible seniors will receive additional annual benefits of up to $600 for single seniors and $840 for couples. Single recipients with an annual income of $2,000 or less, excluding OAS benefits, and couples with an annual income of $4,000 or less, will receive the full increase.

The increase came into effect on July 1, 2011 and will be included in the regular July payment.

Recipients who are eligible will have their GIS or Allowance benefits automatically adjusted to reflect the change.

If you already receive one of these benefits, we will notify you by letter in July if you are eligible to receive the top-up.

I need more information on the Guaranteed Income Supplement.