Survivor Payment :For low-income Canadians between the ages of 60 and 64 who have lost a spouse or common-law partner, the Allowance for the Survivor offers critical financial support. The maximum monthly payment stands at $1,647.34 for 2025, providing essential financial assistance during one of life’s most challenging transitions.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about Canada’s Allowance for the Survivor benefit, including eligibility requirements, payment amounts, application processes, and important deadlines for June 2025.
What is the Allowance for the Survivor?
The Allowance for the Survivor is part of the federal OAS program. It’s a non-taxable, income-tested benefit designed specifically for surviving spouses or common-law partners who are not yet eligible for full senior benefits. Introduced in 1989, the benefit was created to help people nearing retirement who lose their main source of income after their partner’s death.
Key Program Features
- Non-taxable benefit: You don’t pay income tax on these payments
- Monthly support: Regular income to help bridge the gap to age 65
- Inflation-adjusted: The amount is reviewed every three months (January, April, July, and October) to align with the Consumer Price Index (CPI)
- Temporary assistance: Payments stop the month after you turn 65
Eligibility Requirements for June 2025
To qualify for the $1,647.34 monthly survivor payment, you must meet all of the following criteria:
Age Requirements
You must be between 60 and 64 years old. Applications can be submitted up to 11 months before your 60th birthday, allowing for early processing.
Relationship Status
- Your spouse or common-law partner has died and since their death you have not remarried or become a common-law partner to another person
- You were living with your deceased partner in a conjugal relationship
Residency Requirements
- Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- You must live in Canada
- Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18
Income Thresholds
Your annual income must be less than $29,712 for 2025. This income test is based on your previous year’s net income as reported on your tax return.
Payment Amounts and Schedule
Maximum Payment Amount
The maximum monthly payment for the allowance for the survivor benefit is $1,647.34 for the January to March 2025 quarter. For the April to June 2025 quarter, the benefit amount has not changed from the previous quarter due to stable inflation measures.
June 2025 Payment Details
- Payment Date: June 26, 2025
- Payment Method: Direct deposit (recommended) or mailed cheque
- Processing Time: Mailed cheques will arrive within 3 business days of the payment date
Income-Based Adjustments
The amount of the Allowance for the Survivor that you receive depends on your previous year’s income. Lower incomes receive higher benefit amounts, with the payment gradually reducing as income approaches the maximum threshold.
How to Apply for the Survivor Allowance
Application Process
- Online Application: Log into your My Service Canada Account
- Required Documentation: Gather proof of death, relationship documentation, and income information
- Processing Time: Allow 6-12 weeks for application processing
- Retroactive Payments: Limited retroactive coverage available
Setting Up Direct Deposit
Activate Direct Deposit: Log into your My Service Canada Account, go to “Profile Settings,” and enter your bank details for faster, more secure payments.
Important Program Updates for 2025
Quarterly Adjustments
Based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), OAS benefits will increase by 1.0% for the July to September 2025 quarter. This means starting in July 2025, eligible recipients may see a slight increase in their monthly payments.
No Change for Q2 2025
As the Consumer Price Index did not increase over the previous 3-month period, Old Age Security benefits remain unchanged for the April to June 2025 quarter.
Difference from CPP Survivor Benefits
Two Separate Programs
Many people confuse this benefit with the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Survivor’s Pension. They’re separate programs:
- Allowance for the Survivor (OAS): Income-tested, for ages 60-64, up to $1,647.34 monthly
- CPP Survivor’s Pension: Based on deceased partner’s contributions, maximum payment amount for 2025 is $859.80
If you qualify for both, you may be able to receive both benefits, potentially providing substantial combined support.
Planning Your Financial Future
Transition at Age 65
The Allowance for the Survivor stops the month after you turn 65. At that point, you may become eligible for:
- Old Age Security (OAS) pension
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Additional provincial benefits
Income Management
Since this benefit is income-tested, managing your annual income strategically can help maximize your payments. Consider timing RRSP withdrawals or other income sources carefully.
The Allowance for the Survivor provides crucial financial support during a difficult transition period. With proper planning and understanding of the eligibility requirements, this $1,647.34 monthly benefit can provide essential stability as you navigate life after the loss of a partner. Remember to apply early, keep your information updated with Service Canada, and file your taxes annually to maintain your benefits.
Payment Schedule Table
| Benefit Quarter | Payment Dates | Amount Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January-March 2025 | Last business day | $1,647.34 maximum | Base amount established |
| April-June 2025 | June 26, 2025 | No change from Q1 | CPI remained stable |
| July-September 2025 | July 29, 2025 | 1.0% increase expected | CPI adjustment applied |
| October-December 2025 | TBD | Subject to CPI review | Quarterly assessment |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive both Allowance for the Survivor and CPP benefits?
Yes, these are separate programs. You may qualify for both the OAS Allowance for the Survivor and CPP survivor benefits simultaneously, as they have different eligibility criteria and funding sources.
What happens if I remarry or enter a common-law relationship?
Your Allowance for the Survivor payments will stop immediately if you remarry or enter into a new common-law relationship. You must notify Service Canada of any changes in your relationship status.
How often is my income reviewed for this benefit?
Your benefit amount is recalculated annually based on your previous year’s tax return. It’s crucial to file your taxes on time each year to maintain your benefits and ensure accurate payment amounts.
