There’s a buzz going around among Canadian seniors about a possible $5,200 double payment in June 2025 for recipients of Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). Sounds like a windfall, right? But before you start planning how to spend it, let’s break down what this really means, who might qualify, and how it could affect your monthly income.
Overview
The $5,200 figure that’s been circulating is actually not a surprise bonus or a one-time government cheque. Instead, it reflects a combined total of one month’s worth of both OAS and GIS for eligible seniors. For example, in 2025, the maximum monthly OAS payment is projected to be about $622.09, while GIS could add up to $982.82 for single seniors. Together, that’s around $1,604.91 per month. Over three months, it adds up to just over $4,800. So, depending on specific benefit levels, $5,200 could simply reflect the total of recent months’ payments.
The scheduled payment date for this combined total is June 29, 2025, which is in line with regular government payment schedules. There’s no confirmed one-time bonus being handed out—at least not officially as of now. However, seniors who qualify for both OAS and GIS will still receive significant monthly support.
Programs
Old Age Security is a monthly pension paid to Canadians aged 65 and older. It’s not linked to your work history like the CPP is. Instead, it depends on your age and how long you’ve lived in Canada after turning 18.
In 2025, you can get up to $622.09 per month, depending on your residency history. That’s just under $7,472 annually.
GIS
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is designed for low-income seniors who already receive OAS. It’s an extra monthly payment to top up your income.
If you’re single, your GIS could be as high as $982.82 per month. That’s up to $11,783 per year—a huge help if your income is limited.
Check out how the numbers break down:
| Benefit Type | Monthly Max (2025) | Annual Max (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| OAS | $622.09 | $7,472 |
| GIS (Single) | $982.82 | $11,783 |
| Combined | $1,604.91 | $19,255 |
Criteria
So, who qualifies for these programs?
OAS Eligibility
- Age: Must be 65 or older
- Residency: Lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
- Status: Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
If you’ve lived in Canada for 40 years or more after 18, you may get the full OAS. Otherwise, the amount is prorated based on your years of residency.
GIS Eligibility
- Income: For single seniors, income must be under $20,832
- For couples: Income limits vary, but generally below $26,688
- OAS Requirement: You must already be receiving OAS
GIS amounts are recalculated every July, based on the previous year’s tax return. If your income drops due to retirement or other reasons, you can request a reassessment sooner.
Steps
Want to make sure you’re not missing out?
Check Your Status
Use My Service Canada Account online or call Service Canada to confirm your eligibility. If you haven’t applied yet but think you’re eligible, don’t wait.
Process
Some people are automatically enrolled in OAS at age 65. If not, apply six months before your birthday. You could also get up to 11 months of retroactive payments.
For GIS, you must apply using your tax return or by submitting a separate income statement if your income changes.
Boost Your Benefits
Even if you have no income, file your taxes each year. That’s how GIS is calculated. And if your income drops during the year, report it—it might increase your GIS sooner.
Examples
Let’s look at two quick examples to make this real:
Maria, a 70-year-old living alone in Ontario, gets $18,000 annually from CPP. That’s below the GIS threshold, so she qualifies for both OAS and GIS. Her combined monthly payment is about $1,604.91, matching the $5,200 figure over three months.
John and Sarah in Alberta live on $12,000 from John’s CPP. Sarah isn’t 65 yet, but John qualifies for both OAS and GIS based on their joint income. Once Sarah turns 65, their payments will go up further.
These cases show how the programs support those with modest incomes and varying life situations.
While there’s no confirmed $5,200 lump sum, eligible seniors will still receive meaningful financial support. If you’re receiving both OAS and GIS, the combined monthly income is likely what’s behind the headline. But that doesn’t make it any less helpful—this support is crucial for seniors managing on fixed incomes. Just make sure you’re enrolled and reporting your income properly to get everything you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Is the $5,200 a one-time bonus?
No, it’s the total of OAS and GIS for eligible recipients.
When is the payment date?
June 29, 2025, according to the schedule.
Who qualifies for GIS in 2025?
Low-income OAS recipients under income thresholds.
How do I apply for GIS?
Use your tax return or file an income statement with Service Canada.
Do couples qualify differently?
Yes, thresholds vary based on marital status and combined income.
