Losing a spouse or common-law partner is tough—finances included. The Allowance for the Survivor helps low-income Canadians aged 60–64 bridge the gap until they reach full Old Age Security (OAS) at 65.
From April to June 2025, eligible recipients can receive up to $1,647.34 per month. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to access this vital support.
What Is the Allowance for the Survivor?
This non-taxable, income-tested benefit offers financial relief to Canadian survivors aged 60–64 whose partners have passed away.
It bridges the gap until full OAS and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) kick in at 65, with quarterly adjustments to match inflation.
At a Glance: Key Details (April–June 2025)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Maximum | $1,647.34 |
| Age Range | 60 to 64 years |
| Income Limit | Net income less than $29,712 |
| Next Payment Date | June 26, 2025 |
| Application Methods | Online or paper form (ISP-3008) |
| Retroactive Payments | Up to 11 months backdated |
Who’s Eligible?
To qualify, you must meet all of the following:
- Be between 60 and 64 years old (apply up to 11 months early).
- Be a resident of Canada with at least 10 years residency since age 18.
- Have lost your spouse or common-law partner, and not remarried.
- Have net income under $29,712 in the previous calendar year.
How Much Will You Actually Get?
Your benefit depends on your income level:
| Net Income | Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| Below $29,712 | Full $1,647.34 |
| ~$15,000 | About $817.62 |
| $29,712 or higher | No benefit |
These amounts are adjusted quarterly to reflect inflation.
How It Stacks Up
| Feature | Allowance for Survivor | CPP Survivor’s Pension |
|---|---|---|
| Age requirement | 60–64 | 60–65 (reduced if early) |
| Income-tested | Yes | No |
| Indexed to inflation | Quarterly (CPI) | Annually (CPI) |
| Max monthly amount (2025) | $1,647.34 | Approx. $647.41 average |
You may qualify for both federal and CPP survivor benefits, boosting your total monthly income.
Payment Schedule for June 2025
- Payment Date: June 26, 2025
- Followed by your province’s standard OAS schedule
- Choose direct deposit for speed and reliability; cheques take ~3 days to deliver
How to Apply
What You’ll Need:
- Death certificate of your deceased spouse/partner
- Proof of common-law or marriage
- Your birth certificate and SIN
- Bank account information for direct deposit
- Last year’s Notice of Assessment (CRA)
Application Options:
- Online via your My Service Canada Account
- By mail, using ISP-3008 and forms for income declaration
Tracking Your Application:
- Online applicants can monitor status through My Service Canada
- Paper applications may take up to 12 weeks to process
Receiving Payments:
- Begin the month after eligibility is met
- Up to 11 months of retroactive payments if you apply late
The $1,647.34 per month Allowance for the Survivor is essential support for widowed Canadians aged 60–64 facing financial hardship. It offers stability until full OAS and GIS eligibility begins at 65.
If you check the boxes—age, residency, income, and marital status—prepare your documentation, apply early (ideally well before turning 60), and set up direct deposit.
With processing times and retro starts, your June 26 payment may include back payments—so don’t delay!
FAQs
Can I receive retroactive payments?
Yes—up to 11 months backdating is available once you submit your application.
Is this benefit taxable?
No—this is a non-taxable benefit. If you go on to receive OAS or GIS at 65, those are taxable.
Can I get CPP survivor benefits too?
Yes, many survivors qualify for both. CPP benefits have different eligibility rules and payout amounts but can be received alongside this benefit.