How to Apply for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) in Canada (2026)
Automatic enrolment, the application form, the documents you need, and the 2026 payment dates.
For many seniors, the GIS starts without any application at all. For others, a short application is needed. Knowing which group you are in — and avoiding a few common errors — is what keeps your payments on time.
Step 1: Are You Enrolled Automatically?
If you were automatically enrolled in OAS, you are usually enrolled in the GIS too. You will receive a letter confirming it the month after you turn 65.
If no letter arrives, you likely need to apply yourself.
Step 2: How to Apply Manually
You can apply online through your secure My Service Canada Account, or by completing the paper Application for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (form ISP-3025).
Fill it in carefully — small mistakes on income or marital status are the most common cause of delays.
Step 3: Documents You’ll Need
- Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Banking details for direct deposit
- Your spouse or partner’s information, if applicable
- Your most recent tax information
2026 GIS Payment Dates
The GIS is deposited on the same day as your OAS — generally the third-last business day of the month.
| Month | Date | Month | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | Jan 29 | Jul | Jul 29 |
| Feb | Feb 26 | Aug | Aug 27 |
| Mar | Mar 27 | Sep | Sep 28 |
| Apr | Apr 28 | Oct | Oct 29 |
| May | May 27 | Nov | Nov 26 |
| Jun | Jun 26 | Dec | Dec 22 |
Always confirm the exact date for the current month, as deposits can shift around holidays.
Keep Your Payments Coming (and Claim Back Pay)
File your taxes on time every year — it is what renews your GIS automatically. If you applied late, you may be able to claim several months of retroactive payments.
While you are organizing your finances, many seniors also review their life insurance for seniors in Canada and their direct-deposit details, so everything is in order in one sitting.
👉 Not certain you meet the rules? Double-check your eligibility first.
👉 Want to know the exact amount first? See how much you could receive.
Quick Questions About Applying
How long does it take to start?
Processing times vary, so it is best to apply as soon as you are eligible to avoid missing payments.
What is form ISP-3025?
It is the paper Application for the Guaranteed Income Supplement, used when you are not enrolled automatically.
What if I miss the tax deadline?
Your GIS can pause until your return is processed, so file as soon as possible to restore it.
Independent guide — not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada or Service Canada. 2026 figures may change quarterly; confirm at canada.ca.