GIS and GAINS: income top-ups for Ontario seniors
Low-income seniors on Old Age Security can get the federal Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and Ontario adds up to $92 a month through GAINS.
By ParentCare Ontario Editorial, published by Otonabee Marketing. Facts checked October 28, 2026. General information, not tax, legal or medical advice.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (federal)
A monthly payment from Service Canada for Old Age Security recipients with low income. Most people are enrolled automatically; others apply through Service Canada.
GAINS (Ontario)
- Amount: up to $92 a month for July 2026 to June 2027.
- Who qualifies: age 65 or older, receiving OAS and the GIS, with private income up to $4,416 (single) or $8,832 (couple).
- Residence: in Canada for 10 years or more, and in Ontario for the last 12 months (or 20 years in total since age 18).
- Applying: no application needed for people already receiving the GIS.
Keep the payments coming
File a tax return by April 30 every year, even with no income. Both GIS and GAINS are worked out from the return.
Facts checked October 28, 2026. We take every amount from the official source and recheck each January and July. Always confirm with the program before you apply.