In October 2025, eligible Canadians aged 60 to 64 who have lost a spouse or common‑law partner may receive the Allowance for the Survivor, with a maximum monthly benefit of CAD 1,675.45 (adjusted) depending on income. This non-taxable benefit helps bridge the gap until full senior benefits begin.
What Is the Survivor Allowance Payment?
The Allowance for the Survivor is a federal program under Canada’s Old Age Security (OAS) system. It provides monthly support to low-income widowed Canadians aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or partner has died and who have limited income.
Unlike CPP survivor benefits (which depend on the deceased’s contributions), this benefit is income-tested, intended as financial assistance based on need. Recipients must apply — the benefit is not automatically granted.
Key Facts and Figures
| Topic | Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Allowance for the Survivor | Under OAS / GIS family of benefits |
| Max Monthly Amount (Oct–Dec 2025) | CAD 1,675.45 | Based on income threshold |
| Income Threshold | Annual net income < CAD 30,216 | If income exceeds, benefit is reduced |
| Eligibility Age Range | 60 to 64 years | Must not yet be in full OAS stage |
| Residency Requirement | 10+ years residence in Canada after age 18 | Some flexibility via social security treaties |
| Marital / Relationship Status | Spouse or partner deceased; no remarriage/common‑law | Must remain unmarried since loss |
| Payment Date (October 2025) | October 29, 2025 | Aligns with OAS/GIS schedule |
| Taxable? | No | This benefit is non‑taxable |
Eligibility Criteria in Detail
To qualify for the Survivor Allowance in October 2025, you must satisfy all of:
- Age: Be between 60 and 64 at the time of application.
- Spousal Loss: Your spouse or common‑law partner must have died, and you must not have remarried or become common‑law again since.
- Residency: You must live in Canada and have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18. In cases where you lived or worked under a country with a social security agreement, a partial benefit may apply.
- Income Limit: Your net income for the previous year must be less than CAD 30,216 to receive the full benefit. If your income is above that threshold, the benefit will be reduced proportionally.
- Not Under Sponsorship: As of October 1, 2025, if you’re under a sponsorship agreement, you may be ineligible for this and related benefits for the duration of the sponsorship.
How Much Will You Receive?
- For the period October to December 2025, the maximum monthly benefit is CAD 1,675.45 for those whose prior-year income is under the threshold.
- If your income exceeds that threshold, your benefit is gradually reduced.
- The benefit is reviewed and adjusted quarterly based on inflation (Consumer Price Index).
Payment Schedule & Methods
- The October 2025 payment is expected on October 29, 2025, coinciding with the regular OAS/GIS payment schedule.
- Payment is disbursed via:
- Direct deposit (preferred and fastest)
- Mail cheque (for recipients without bank account)
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Gather Your Documents
- Proof of your spouse/partner’s death
- Social Insurance Numbers (yours and deceased)
- Proof of age, citizenship or residency
- Income documents (tax returns, slips)
- Banking information for direct deposit
- Submit Application
- Online via My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
- Or via paper application using Form ISP‑3008 and supporting forms
- Processing Time
- Allow 6 to 12 weeks for processing, depending on volume and completeness
- Retroactive benefits may be granted up to 11 months before application (if eligible)
- Check Status & Appeals
- You’ll receive notification once approved
- If you disagree with the amount, you can request a review within 90 days
Tip Example & Common Pitfalls
- Example: Sarah, age 62, has a net income of CAD 25,000. She applies in early 2025 and qualifies nearly full benefit: about CAD 1,675.45/month.
- Pitfall: If you fail to file your tax return, your reported income will be incomplete and could disqualify or reduce payments.
- Pitfall: Remarrying or entering a new common-law relationship after your spouse’s death disqualifies you.
The Survivor Allowance Payment is an important safety net for low-income widowed Canadians aged 60 to 64. In October 2025, eligible individuals may receive up to CAD 1,675.45 monthly, provided their income is under the threshold and they meet residency, age, and marital status criteria.
If you believe you qualify, gather your documents, apply via Service Canada, and monitor the processing timeline carefully. This benefit can meaningfully ease financial strain during challenging transitions.
