Canada’s $1,647 Survivor Allowance – If you’ve recently lost your spouse or common-law partner and are between the ages of 60 and 64, you may be eligible for Canada’s Allowance for the Survivor—a monthly payment of up to $1,647.34 as of May 2025. This federal support is designed to ease the financial burden during a particularly difficult time, especially for low-income individuals.
The May 2025 payment is part of the quarterly rate adjustment by the Government of Canada, and thousands of Canadians are either already receiving it or becoming newly eligible this month. But are you on the list? This article breaks it down in detail so you can find out.
Canada’s $1,647 Survivor Allowance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Allowance for the Survivor |
| Maximum Monthly Payment | $1,647.34 (April–June 2025) |
| Next Payment Date | May 28, 2025 |
| Eligibility Age | 60 to 64 years old |
| Key Requirement | Spouse/common-law partner has died, and you’re not remarried |
| Income Threshold | Annual income under $29,712 |
| Application Method | Online via My Service Canada Account or by mail |
| Program Type | Part of the Old Age Security (OAS) system |
The Canada $1,647 Allowance for the Survivor supports low-income widowed Canadians aged 60 to 64. It fills a critical financial gap before full senior benefits begin at age 65. Apply online or by mail through Service Canada to avoid delays.
What Is the Allowance for the Survivor?
The Allowance for the Survivor is a non-taxable monthly benefit provided under Canada’s Old Age Security (OAS) program. It’s specifically intended for low-income widows, widowers, or surviving common-law partners aged 60 to 64 years. Once the recipient turns 65, this benefit ends, and they may transition to receiving regular OAS payments if eligible.
Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) survivor’s benefit, which is based on the deceased’s contributions, this OAS benefit is income-tested and doesn’t depend on employment history.
Why Is This Benefit Important in 2025?
Due to rising inflation, housing costs, and grocery prices, many seniors and near-seniors are finding it hard to make ends meet—especially after losing a spouse who may have been the primary earner. The Allowance for the Survivor can provide critical financial relief during this transition.
According to Statistics Canada, more than 1.5 million Canadians aged 60–64 fall in the low-income bracket, and a growing number of them are single due to widowhood. Programs like this help fill that income gap until seniors reach full pension eligibility at age 65.
Real-Life Example: How It Helped Margaret in Nova Scotia
Margaret, a 62-year-old woman from Halifax, lost her husband to cancer two years ago. With limited savings and no pension of her own, she was struggling to cover basic expenses. A friend suggested she apply for the Allowance for the Survivor. Within three months of applying, Margaret began receiving $1,620 per month. This benefit now helps her cover rent, medication, and groceries, allowing her to live with dignity.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,647 Survivor Allowance?
To qualify for the full Allowance for the Survivor in May 2025, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Age Requirement
You must be between 60 and 64 years old at the time of application.
Marital Status
Your spouse or common-law partner must have passed away, and you must not have remarried or entered another common-law relationship since their death.
Canadian Residency
You must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident and have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18. If you haven’t, but worked in a country that has a social security agreement with Canada, you may still qualify for partial benefits.
Income Requirement
Your annual net income must be less than $29,712 (for the July 2024 to June 2025 benefit period).
Full eligibility details can be found on the Government of Canada website.
How Much Will You Get in May 2025?
As of April to June 2025, the maximum monthly Allowance for the Survivor is $1,647.34. This amount is reviewed quarterly and adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Income-Based Adjustment
If your income is slightly below the threshold, you may receive less than the full amount. The lower your income, the closer you are to receiving the full $1,647.34.
When Will the May 2025 Payment Be Sent?
The next payment is scheduled for May 28, 2025. Payments are made via:
- Direct Deposit: Typically received the same day.
- Cheque: May take several days to arrive.
You can check or change your payment preferences via your My Service Canada Account.
How to Apply for the Survivor Allowance?
Option 1 – Apply Online
Log in to your My Service Canada Account (MSCA) and follow the application steps.
Option 2 – Apply by Mail
Download the application form from the official website, complete it, and mail it to your local Service Canada office with the following documents:
- Proof of your spouse or partner’s death
- Proof of income
- Proof of age
Processing Time
Processing takes 6–12 weeks. Retroactive payments are available for up to 11 months.
What Happens When You Turn 65?
At age 65, the Allowance for the Survivor ends. You may then begin receiving:
- Old Age Security (OAS) pension
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
How to Maximize Your Benefits?
- Minimize Taxable Income: Delay RRSP withdrawals.
- Report Life Changes: Notify Service Canada of changes in income or marital status.
- Request Retroactive Payments: If you were previously eligible.
- Maintain Updated Accounts: Use MSCA and CRA MyAccount.
- Seek Local Help: Community centres can help with applications.
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FAQs
Can I get this payment if I live abroad?
Yes, if you’ve lived in Canada for at least 20 years after age 18 or your country has a social security agreement with Canada.
What if I remarry or start a new common-law relationship?
You will no longer be eligible.
Will this affect my other benefits?
No. It’s non-taxable and usually does not impact provincial benefits.
Is the $1,647.34 a fixed amount?
No. It depends on your annual income.
Is there a deadline to apply?
No formal deadline, but apply early to receive up to 11 months of back pay.
