If you’re between the ages of 60 and 64, have lost a spouse or common-law partner, and are trying to manage on a tight income, Canada’s Allowance for the Survivor might be just the relief you need.
This benefit can pay up to $1,647.34 monthly starting June 2025, helping you bridge the financial gap until you qualify for full Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) at age 65. Let’s walk through exactly how this benefit works and how you can apply.
Table of Contents
Overview
The Allowance for the Survivor is part of the federal OAS program and is specifically designed to help lower-income Canadians in their early 60s who’ve lost a partner. It’s non-taxable and income-tested—meaning your payment depends on how much you earned last year. In June 2025, the maximum payout is $1,647.34 per month.
Here’s a quick snapshot:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 60–64 years |
| Income Cap | Less than $29,712 (net) |
| Max Payment | $1,647.34/month |
| Application | Online or by mail |
| Payment Date | June 26, 2025 |
| Retroactive | Up to 11 months |
Eligibility
So, who qualifies? You’ll need to check off a few boxes:
- Be between 60 and 64 years old (you can apply 11 months before turning 60)
- Live in Canada when applying and have lived here for at least 10 years after age 18
- Your spouse or partner must have passed away
- You haven’t remarried or entered a new common-law relationship
- Your net income last year was under $29,712
If you’re unsure how your income fits, just check your latest CRA Notice of Assessment.
Payments
Not everyone gets the full $1,647.34. It depends on how much you earned last year. The lower your income, the higher your benefit.
Here’s a simplified example:
| Net Income | Estimated Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| $10,000 | ~$1,094.75 |
| $15,000 | ~$817.62 |
| $29,000 | ~$91.80 |
| $29,712+ | $0 |
The government calculates everything automatically once you apply—they use your tax return, so make sure it’s accurate and up to date.
Compare
Wondering how this compares to the CPP Survivor’s Pension? Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Feature | Survivor Allowance | CPP Survivor Pension |
|---|---|---|
| Income-Tested | Yes | No |
| Max Monthly Amount | $1,647.34 | ~$647.41 |
| Based on Contributions | No | Yes |
| Duration | Until age 65 | For life (if eligible) |
You can apply for both if you qualify—and you probably should.
Application
Here’s how to get started:
Online
- Log in to My Service Canada Account
- Click “Apply for a benefit”
- Choose “Allowance for the Survivor”
- Upload your documents (like death certificate, SIN, proof of income)
- Submit and save your confirmation number
- Download Form ISP-3008
- Fill it out, attach copies of your documents, and mail it to Service Canada
- Expect processing to take about 12 weeks
If you’re eligible, you’ll get paid starting the month after you qualify. Plus, you might get up to 11 months’ worth of retroactive payments.
Planning
While the benefit is a huge help, it doesn’t replace a full income. Here are a few tips:
- Budget: Track spending with a simple budget worksheet
- Provincial Help: Check if your province offers extras. For example, B.C. has a Senior’s Supplement
- Plan Ahead: At 65, you’ll transition to OAS and possibly GIS. Start planning now for a smooth switch
Use tools from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) or speak with a non-profit credit counsellor if money feels tight.
No one wants to think about government forms when they’re grieving, but this support is meant to help. By applying early and staying organized, you can get financial breathing room when you need it most. Be proactive—this money is meant to support you.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the survivor benefit?
Low-income Canadians aged 60–64 who lost a spouse.
How much is the June 2025 payment?
The maximum is $1,647.34 per month.
Is the survivor benefit taxable?
No, the Allowance for the Survivor is non-taxable.
How do I apply for the benefit?
Apply online via MSCA or by mailing form ISP-3008.
When will I receive my first payment?
Payments start the month after you qualify.
