Losing a spouse or common-law partner is one of the most painful life experiences—and it often brings a financial burden along with the emotional weight. For Canadians aged 60 to 64, the federal government has created a program to ease this transition: the Allowance for the Survivor, a targeted, income-tested benefit that helps bridge the gap until seniors become eligible for full Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) at age 65.
Beginning June 2025, the maximum monthly benefit will rise to $1647.34, giving survivors much-needed stability during a difficult time. But not everyone qualifies for the full amount, and the benefit comes with strict rules on age, income, and marital status.
Overview: What the Survivor Benefit Is and Why It Exists
The Allowance for the Survivor is part of the OAS program. It is non-taxable and income-tested, meaning the less you earn, the higher your monthly benefit. It is designed for widows and widowers who are not yet 65 but still need support.
Snapshot for June 2025:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 60–64 years |
| Income Cap | Less than $29712 (net income) |
| Max Payment | \$1647.34/month |
| Application | Online or by mail |
| Payment Date | June 26, 2025 (first updated payment) |
| Retroactive | Up to 11 months if eligible |
This benefit provides temporary but critical financial relief before recipients transition into standard OAS and GIS.
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
Not every widow or widower will qualify. To receive the benefit, you must meet several conditions:
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- Be between 60 and 64 years old (applications can be submitted up to 11 months before your 60th birthday).
- Live in Canada when applying and have resided in the country for at least 10 years after age 18.
- Have a deceased spouse or common-law partner.
- Not have remarried or entered into a new common-law relationship.
- Have a net income under $29712 as shown on your latest CRA Notice of Assessment.
These requirements ensure the benefit reaches its intended audience: low- to modest-income Canadians navigating the financial challenges of widowhood.
Payment Amounts: How Much You Can Expect
While the maximum payout is $1647.34, not everyone receives this full amount. Payments are reduced as income increases.
Example Breakdown for 2025:
| Net Income | Estimated Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| $10,000 | ~$1,094.75 |
| $15,000 | ~$817.62 |
| $29,000 | ~$91.80 |
| $29,712+ | $0 |
The benefit is calculated automatically by Service Canada using your tax return information, so it’s crucial to file taxes on time and accurately.
Comparison: Survivor Allowance vs. CPP Survivor Pension
Many Canadians confuse the Allowance for the Survivor with the CPP Survivor’s Pension. While both support widows and widowers, they differ significantly.
| Feature | Survivor Allowance | CPP Survivor Pension |
|---|---|---|
| Income-Tested | Yes | No |
| Max Monthly Amount | \$1,647.34 | ~\$647.41 |
| Based on Contributions | No | Yes (depends on deceased’s CPP contributions) |
| Duration | Until age 65 | For life (if eligible) |
You can receive both benefits if you qualify, giving you stronger financial security.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Applying for the Allowance for the Survivor can be done online or by mail.
Online Application
- Log in to My Service Canada Account (MSCA).
- Select “Apply for a Benefit.”
- Choose “Allowance for the Survivor.”
- Upload required documents:
- Death certificate of your spouse/partner
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Proof of income (CRA Notice of Assessment)
- Submit and save your confirmation number.
Mail Application
- Download Form ISP-3008 from the Service Canada website.
- Complete the form and attach certified copies of required documents.
- Mail to the nearest Service Canada processing centre.
- Expect processing to take about 12 weeks.
Note: Payments begin the month after you qualify, and you may receive up to 11 months of retroactive payments if you delayed applying.
Payment Dates for June 2025 and Beyond
The first updated payment at the new maximum rate is scheduled for June 26, 2025. After that, benefits follow the same monthly pension schedule as OAS and GIS.
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2025 Payment Dates:
- June 26, 2025
- July 29, 2025
- August 27, 2025
- September 25, 2025
- October 29, 2025
- November 26, 2025
- December 22, 2025
Direct deposit ensures faster access, while mailed cheques may take longer.
Planning Ahead: What Happens at 65?
The Allowance for the Survivor ends when you turn 65. At that point, you automatically transition into Old Age Security (OAS) and may qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). Planning ahead is important:
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- Budget Carefully: Use the benefit to cover essentials while preparing for the OAS/GIS shift.
- Check Provincial Supplements: Some provinces, like British Columbia, offer additional payments (e.g., the Senior’s Supplement).
- Get Advice: Consider tools from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) or speak to a non-profit credit counsellor.
Why This Benefit Matters
For widows and widowers in their early 60s, the years before turning 65 can be financially precarious. With work opportunities limited and other pensions not yet available, the Allowance for the Survivor is a lifeline.
By providing up to \$1,647.34 per month, the federal government ensures Canadians don’t fall into poverty during one of life’s most difficult transitions.
5 FAQs
Q1. What is the Allowance for the Survivor?
It is a non-taxable, income-tested benefit under OAS for widows and widowers aged 60–64.
Q2. How much can I receive?
Up to \$1,647.34 per month as of June 2025, depending on your income.
Q3. How long can I receive this benefit?
Until you turn 65, at which point you transition to OAS and possibly GIS.
Q4. Can I also receive the CPP Survivor’s Pension?
Yes, if you qualify. Many Canadians receive both benefits together.
Q5. How do I apply?
Online through My Service Canada Account or by mailing Form ISP-3008 with supporting documents.