Senior Benefits in Canada: BC & Alberta

It’s increasingly important to ensure that seniors across Canada have access to the support and benefits they need to lead fulfilling lives. Fortunately, BC and Alberta offer a range of programs, services and senior benefits designed to assist individuals in various aspects of their lives, from healthcare to financial assistance and more. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the senior benefits available in BC and Alberta, highlighting key programs and services.

Senior Benefits in BC

The Government of British Columbia, along with the Government of Canada, offers a range of support programs specifically tailored to individuals aged 65 and older and their families.

In British Columbia, eligible seniors can access Federal programs like the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and Old Age Security (OAS). These programs provide financial assistance to low-income seniors living in Canada. 

People enrolled in these federal programs may also be eligible for the BC Seniors Supplement, which tops up income. The calculation of the payment by the BC government is contingent upon the level of financial support received from Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). These figures are determined by the income disclosed in the previous year’s tax return. Eligible individuals will begin receiving the Senior’s Supplement approximately one month following their initial OAS/GIS payment. No application is necessary as the payment process is automatic.

Depending on your OAS/GIS monthly amounts, you could receive:

• $1.00 to $99.30 for single seniors
• $2.00 to $220.50 for senior couples
• $1.00 to $99.83 as a spouse receiving the federal OAS allowance

While most seniors receiving OAS and GIS may no longer qualify for provincial assistance due to combined income exceeding support thresholds, some may remain eligible if their income support from Canada’s pension programs is insufficient or if they encounter eligibility barriers

The following benefits also exist:

• BC Seniors’ Home Renovation Tax Credit: Offers a refundable tax credit to help seniors with the cost of eligible home renovations to improve accessibility and mobility.
• BC Fair PharmaCare: Assists with the cost of eligible prescription drugs and medical supplies for eligible low-income seniors.
• Free Bus Pass: Low-income seniors who qualify can access an annual bus pass to facilitate greater community engagement. This pass extends coverage to the transit systems across British Columbia.

Alberta Seniors Benefit

The Alberta Seniors Benefit provides eligible seniors aged 65 and above with much-needed financial assistance to cover basic living expenses. The benefit amount varies depending on several factors including income, marital status, and any dependents.

To qualify for the Alberta Seniors Benefit, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the provincial government. Generally, applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents residing in Alberta and be at least 65 years old. They must also have resided in Alberta for at least three months before applying. Additionally, applicants must meet income thresholds established by the program, which may vary based on marital status and dependents. 

Seniors receiving federal benefits such as Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement may also be eligible for the Alberta Seniors Benefit, although the amount received may be adjusted accordingly. 

Maximum benefit amount: If your non-deductible income amounts to $0, you will receive the highest available benefit based on your accommodation type and marital status. However, if your non-deductible income exceeds $0, the maximum benefit you’re eligible to receive will decrease incrementally for every dollar of non-deductible income reported.

As affordability becomes harder in Canada, these benefits can help seniors afford the cost of living! For more money saving tips, check out our blog on The Best Senior Discounts in Canada.