Guide to the Allowance for the Survivor

What Is the Allowance for the Survivor?

The Allowance for the Survivor is part of Canada's Old Age Security (OAS) program, administered by Service Canada. It provides a monthly payment to people between 60 and 64 years of age whose spouse or common-law partner has passed away and whose annual income falls below a specified threshold.

This benefit bridges the gap for low-income survivors who are too young to qualify for OAS or the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which start at age 65. It recognizes that losing a partner can create significant financial hardship, especially for those approaching retirement.

The Allowance for the Survivor is separate from the CPP Survivor's Pension, which is paid through the Canada Pension Plan. You may be eligible for both programs simultaneously.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you must meet all of these criteria:

• Age: Between 60 and 64 years old. The benefit stops when you turn 65.
• Residency: You must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident and have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18.
• Marital status: Your spouse or common-law partner must have died, and you must not have entered a new common-law relationship or remarried.
• Income: Your annual income must be below the maximum threshold, which is updated quarterly. Current thresholds are published on the OAS payment amounts page.

If you leave Canada, payments may continue for up to six months after departure. After that, they stop until you return and re-establish residency.

How to Apply

Step 1: Gather Documents

Before starting, collect the following:

• Your birth certificate or proof of age
• Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Proof of Canadian citizenship or legal residence status
• Your spouse's or common-law partner's death certificate
• Proof of your relationship (marriage certificate or statutory declaration of common-law union)
• Your most recent income tax return or Notice of Assessment from the CRA
• Banking information for direct deposit (institution number, transit number, account number)

Step 2: Complete the Application

The application form is available on the Service Canada website. You can complete it online through your My Service Canada Account or print a paper version and mail it in.

Step 3: Submit

Submit the completed form with all required documents. If applying online, upload digital copies. If applying by mail, send photocopies rather than originals to the Service Canada address on the form.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

Service Canada reviews your application and may contact you for additional information. Processing typically takes several weeks. You will receive a letter informing you of the outcome.

How Payments Are Calculated

The payment amount depends on your annual income. Lower income means a higher benefit, up to a maximum monthly amount. The maximum is adjusted quarterly to account for cost of living changes and is currently approximately $1,647 per month (check the OAS payment amounts page for exact current figures).

Your payment is calculated using your previous year's income, excluding OAS and the first portion of CPP benefits. You must file your income tax return every year to continue receiving the benefit, as Service Canada uses your tax information to verify eligibility and calculate amounts.

When Payments Start and Stop

Payments can begin the month after approval and can be backdated up to 11 months before your application date if you were eligible during that period. Apply as soon as you believe you qualify.

The Allowance for the Survivor stops when you:

• Turn 65 (at which point you may qualify for OAS and GIS)
• Remarry or enter a new common-law relationship
• Leave Canada for more than six months
• Have income exceeding the threshold
• Pass away (your estate may be entitled to a final payment)

Tax Implications

The Allowance for the Survivor is taxable income. Payments are included in your annual income and may affect your tax obligations. However, because the benefit targets low-income individuals, many recipients owe little or no additional tax. Service Canada issues a T4A(OAS) slip at tax time showing the total received. For more on tax obligations, see our guide to filing your first tax return.

Other Benefits You May Qualify For

• CPP Survivor's Pension: If your deceased partner contributed to CPP, you may receive a monthly pension. This is a separate program.
• CPP Death Benefit: A one-time lump sum of up to $2,500 paid to the estate of the deceased contributor.
• Provincial or territorial benefits: Some provinces offer supplementary support for low-income near-seniors.
• GST/HST Credit: If your income is low, you may qualify for the quarterly GST/HST credit.

Common Questions

Can I receive the Allowance and CPP at the same time?

Yes. They are separate programs. However, your CPP income is included in the income calculation for the Allowance, so it may reduce the amount you receive.

What happens at age 65?

The Allowance stops. You should then apply for OAS and, if eligible, GIS. Service Canada typically sends information about these programs before your 65th birthday.

Do I need to reapply every year?

No. But you must file your income tax return annually. Service Canada uses your tax information to verify continued eligibility and recalculate your payment.

Getting Help

• Visit a Service Canada Centre for in-person assistance
• Call Service Canada at 1-800-277-9914 (TTY: 1-800-255-4786)
• Explore free settlement services for community-based support
• Check our guide to My Service Canada Account for managing benefits online

Related Guides

• How to Register for My Service Canada Account
• How to Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
• How to File Your First Tax Return in Canada
• Applying for EI Benefits in Canada
• Understanding the Canadian Tax System for Newcomers

The Allowance for the Survivor provides essential financial support during one of life's most challenging transitions. If you or someone you know may be eligible, apply without delay. The benefit can make a meaningful difference in maintaining financial stability while navigating the loss of a partner.