If you are aged 60 to 64, have lost your spouse or common-law partner, and are facing financial hardship, Canada’s Allowance for the Survivor may provide critical financial support. Beginning in June 2025, eligible individuals can receive up to $1,647.34 per month through this non-taxable federal benefit.
This program, part of the Old Age Security (OAS) system, is designed to bridge the income gap for bereaved Canadians who haven’t yet reached the full OAS eligibility age of 65.
What Is the Allowance for the Survivor?
The Allowance for the Survivor is an income-tested, non-taxable benefit under the Old Age Security program, created to support low-income Canadians between ages 60 and 64 who have lost their spouse or common-law partner. The payment varies depending on your previous year’s net income and can reach a maximum of $1,647.34/month as of June 2025.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 60–64 years |
| Income Cap | Less than $29,712/year |
| Max Monthly Payment | $1,647.34 |
| Application Methods | Online or by mail |
| Start Date | June 26, 2025 |
| Retroactive Payment | Up to 11 months |
Who Is Eligible for the Survivor Benefit?
To qualify for the Allowance for the Survivor, you must:
- Be aged 60 to 64 at the time of application
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18
- Be residing in Canada when applying
- Have lost a legal spouse or common-law partner
- Not be remarried or in a new common-law relationship
- Have had a net income below $29,712 in the previous tax year
Use your CRA Notice of Assessment to verify your income eligibility.
How Much Will You Receive?
The benefit amount depends on your net annual income. Here’s a simplified chart:
| Net Income (CAD) | Estimated Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| $10,000 | ~$1,094.75 |
| $15,000 | ~$817.62 |
| $29,000 | ~$91.80 |
| $29,712+ | $0 |
The lower your income, the higher your monthly benefit. The government calculates the exact amount using your most recent tax return, so accuracy is essential.
How This Compares to CPP Survivor’s Pension
You may be wondering how this differs from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Survivor’s Pension. Here’s a quick comparison:
| 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 | Lifelong (if eligible) |
You can apply for both benefits if eligible—doing so may help maximize your financial support during this period.
How to Apply for the Allowance for the Survivor
Online Application:
- Log into My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
- Click “Apply for a benefit”
- Select “Allowance for the Survivor”
- Upload supporting documents (e.g., death certificate, proof of income)
- Submit and save your confirmation number
Mail Application:
- Download Form ISP-3008
- Complete the form and attach required documents
- Mail it to your nearest Service Canada office
- Processing typically takes around 12 weeks
If approved, payments will begin the month after you qualify, and you may receive up to 11 months’ retroactive payments.
Planning Ahead: What You Should Know
While this benefit offers valuable help, it’s not a full income replacement. Here are practical planning steps:
- Create a basic budget to manage expenses
- Explore provincial supports—like B.C.’s Senior’s Supplement or housing aid
- Prepare for the transition to OAS and GIS when you turn 65
- Use tools from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) or consult with a non-profit credit counsellor if needed
Being proactive can ease the financial strain during a difficult time.
Important Dates and Retroactive Payment Info
- Start Date: Payments begin on June 26, 2025
- Retroactive Claims: Up to 11 months of past payments may be available if you qualified earlier
- Tax Impact: Payments are non-taxable and do not affect other benefits like GIS or OAS