As of January 2026, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) have released updated benefit amounts and payment schedules for seniors.
While social media reports often circulate regarding “one-time” extra payments, the most reliable financial support for low-income seniors remains the monthly Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
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For many eligible seniors, the combined monthly direct deposit can significantly exceed $1,200, providing essential relief for housing and cost-of-living expenses.
Official Benefit Amounts for January to March 2026
The federal government adjusts pension amounts quarterly to keep pace with inflation based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). For the first quarter of 2026, benefit rates have seen a modest increase.
- Old Age Security (OAS): Seniors aged 65 to 74 can receive up to $742.31 per month. Those aged 75 and over receive a higher maximum of $816.54.
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): This non-taxable benefit is specifically for low-income OAS recipients. A single, widowed, or divorced senior can receive up to $1,108.74 monthly.
- Combined Monthly Total: A single low-income senior may receive a total monthly direct deposit of approximately $1,851.05 (OAS + GIS), provided they meet the income eligibility requirements.
Detailed eligibility and current tables are available on the official OAS payment amounts page.
January 2026 Payment Calendar
The CRA and Service Canada follow a strict schedule for distributing these funds. For January 2026, the primary payment dates are as follows:
- OAS and GIS: Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
- GST/HST Credit: Monday, January 5, 2026.
- Advanced Canada Workers Benefit (ACWB): Monday, January 12, 2026.
To ensure there are no delays, seniors are encouraged to sign up for direct deposit through their CRA My Account or Service Canada portal.
Eligibility Criteria for Low-Income Support
To qualify for the maximum monthly GIS and OAS payments, recipients must meet the following federal requirements:
- Age: Must be 65 years of age or older.
- Residency: Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident living in Canada.
- Income Thresholds: For the 2026 benefit year, a single senior’s annual net income must be less than $22,488 to qualify for the GIS.
- Tax Filing: You must file your 2024 income tax return to continue receiving GIS payments without interruption.
Clarifying “One-Time” Payment Rumors
The Government of Canada has issued warnings regarding misinformation claiming the existence of new, unannounced “relief payments” of specific amounts like $1,200 or $2,000. While the government did issue one-time payments during the pandemic, no such new legislation has been enacted for 2026. Seniors should verify any “new” payment claims by logging into their CRA My Account to view their personalized benefit “Notice of Entitlement.”
Official updates are exclusively posted on the Canada.ca benefits homepage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a special $1,200 one-time payment for seniors in January 2026?
No. There is no official “one-time” $1,200 payment; however, eligible low-income seniors receive more than $1,200 monthly through combined OAS and GIS payments.
When will the CRA send the next senior benefit deposit?
The next scheduled direct deposit for OAS and GIS is January 28, 2026.
Do I need to apply for the GIS every year?
No, your eligibility is automatically reviewed each year when you file your income tax return by the April 30 deadline.
Ben Lee is a content writer specializing in government schemes and public benefit programs, delivering clear and up-to-date information to help readers understand eligibility, payments, and policy changes.