Allowance for the Survivor
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To update your information in My Service Canada Account (MSCA):
- Call 1‑800‑277‑9914 or visit a Service Canada location to activate your notifications and alerts
- You only need to do this once
- Register and sign in to MSCA
- On your OAS dashboard, select "Profile", then choose "Manage my payment destination"
- Once your change is confirmed, your new banking information will show under "Payment details" on the Profile page.
The Allowance for the Survivor is a monthly tax-free payment you can get if you are 60 to 64 years old, you have low income, and your spouse or common-law partner has died.
You will have to apply if your spouse or common-law partner has died and you are aged 60 to 64. You can submit your application no earlier than 11 months before your 60th birthday.
Payment amounts
Surviving spouse/common-law partner:
up to $1,682.15/month
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What can I do in My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
Sign in or register for My Service Canada Account to access the Allowance benefits and services.
Learn more about Old Age Security in MSCA.
If you're already familiar with the Allowance for the Survivor, explore these quick links to help you take action now:
Related links
To qualify for the Allowance, you must also qualify for the GIS and for OAS. Check if you're eligible for OAS and the following pensions and benefits:
Other benefits
Old Age Security (OAS) pension
Apply for OAS if you are 65 and older even if you have never worked or are still working.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
Apply for this benefit if you are an Old Age Security recipient with low income.
Allowance
Apply for this benefit if you are 60 to 64 years old and your spouse or common-law partner is eligible to receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
Decide when and how to apply for your CPP retirement.
CPP Post-Retirement Benefit (PRB)
If you're under 70 and working while receiving your CPP, you can still contribute to increase your pension.
Contact us
If you have general questions about the Allowance for the Survivor or specific questions about your application, contact us.