In Canada, the government offers various monetary benefits to assist low-income residents, with specific programs tailored to support individuals and families facing financial hardship. Among these benefits, the Survivor Allowance provides crucial financial assistance to the surviving spouses or common-law partners of individuals who were claiming the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) or Old Age Security (OAS). This benefit, available through Service Canada, is designed to ensure that survivors can maintain financial stability after losing their primary income earner.
Canada Survivor Allowance 2024: $1,647 Monthly Payment
For the final quarter of 2024, the Canada Survivor Allowance has been set at $1,647 per month, which began on October 1, 2024. This amount is subject to change each quarter based on inflation adjustments, ensuring that the benefit keeps pace with the rising cost of living. For the months of October, November, and December 2024, this allowance will provide much-needed support to survivors who are facing financial difficulties after the death of a spouse or partner who was receiving OAS and GIS.
What is the Survivor Allowance?
The Survivor Allowance is a financial aid program designed to assist surviving spouses or common-law partners after the death of their loved one who was receiving the GIS or OAS benefits. This allowance is particularly important for individuals who lose their primary income source, offering them a lifeline as they adjust to life without their financial supporter.
Eligible survivors may receive $1,647 per month from October to December 2024, providing crucial support as they navigate their new financial reality. However, it’s important to note that this benefit is indexed to inflation and adjusted quarterly by Service Canada.
Eligibility for the Canada Survivor Allowance
To qualify for the Survivor Allowance, the claimant must meet the following criteria:
- Age: The claimant must be between 60 and 64 years old at the time of application.
- Residency: The survivor must have been a Canadian resident for at least 10 years since turning 18.
- Income Limit: The claimant’s annual income must be $29,712 or less.
- Spousal Requirements: The survivor must have been the spouse or common-law partner of someone who was receiving GIS at the time of their death.
- Relationship Status: The survivor must not have remarried or entered into a common-law relationship since the death of their spouse or partner.
- Special Circumstances for Immigrants: Immigrants who have lived in Canada for less than 10 years may still be eligible if certain conditions are met, such as the bankruptcy, death, or conviction of their sponsor.
How to Apply for the Survivor Allowance
Survivors can apply for the Survivor Allowance after the death of their spouse or common-law partner. The application process can be completed online through My Account or by visiting Service Canada offices. It’s important for the survivor to ensure that their tax returns are filed as this benefit may be stopped if the return is not submitted.
Survivor Allowance Payment Dates for 2024
The Survivor Allowance is paid monthly, with the current $1,647 amount applicable for October, November, and December 2024. The following are the official payment dates for the final quarter of the year:
- November 2024: November 27th, Wednesday
- December 2024: December 20th, Friday
Frequently Asked Questions About the Survivor Allowance
Who is Eligible to Claim the Survivor Allowance?
The Survivor Allowance can be claimed by surviving spouses or common-law partners whose loved one was receiving the GIS or OAS benefits before passing.
Is the $1,647 Survivor Allowance Reliable?
Yes, the $1,647 per month is a reliable benefit designed to help survivors cover basic living expenses. However, it is subject to quarterly inflation adjustments, so the amount may change in future quarters.
Is the Survivor Allowance Permanent?
No, the $1,647 Survivor Allowance is not permanent. It is indexed to inflation and reviewed quarterly by Service Canada. The amount is applicable for October, November, and December 2024, but may fluctuate based on inflation changes.
Is the Survivor Allowance Taxable?
No, the Survivor Allowance is non-taxable. However, claimants must file their tax returns in order to continue receiving the benefit. Failure to file could result in the suspension of the allowance.
How Can a Survivor Enroll for the Allowance?
Survivors can enroll for the Survivor Allowance after the death of their spouse or common-law partner. The process can be done online via My Account or in person at a Service Canada office.
Conclusion
The Canada Survivor Allowance provides essential financial support for surviving spouses or common-law partners after the death of a loved one. With the monthly payment set at $1,647 from October to December 2024, this benefit helps survivors maintain financial security during a difficult time. Eligible individuals should stay informed about the application process and payment dates to ensure they receive the support they need.
