What is GIS in plain words?

GIS stands for the Guaranteed Income Supplement. In plain words, it is a monthly, tax-free payment added to Old Age Security for eligible people age 65 or older who have a low income and live in Canada.

You must receive Old Age Security and meet the GIS eligibility rules. The amount is not the same for everyone. It generally depends on your income from the previous year and whether you are single or have a spouse or common-law partner. For couples, combined income is normally used.

Service Canada automatically enrols many eligible people, but some must apply. File your income tax return every year—even if you owe no tax—because Service Canada reviews GIS using tax-return information. If you have a spouse or common-law partner, they should file too. Missing a return can delay, reduce, or stop payments.