Feds providing financial aid for struggling seniors
Published June 5, 2020 at 12:20 am
The Federal Government will be providing aid for senior citizens who have been especially struggling during the pandemic.
The pandemic has been particularly difficult for seniors who have had to remain in isolation due to the fact they’re among those most vulnerable to the virus.
In addition to feelings of isolation, many seniors rely on the assistance of their family when it comes to shopping for groceries and other essential items.
As a result, the Federal Government has announced that seniors eligible for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) will receive a special, one-time, tax-free payment during the first week of July.
Those eligible for the OAS pension will receive a payment of $300, and those also eligible for the GIS will receive an additional $200, for a total of $500.
Further, allowance recipients will receive an additional $500. This funding is intended to assist seniors cover increased costs caused by the pandemic, as well as provide a sense of financial security during these uncertain times.
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“Canada’s seniors have done so much for our country, and we need to be there for them during this challenging time. We know that the last few weeks have been difficult for seniors and their families across the country, especially those most vulnerable,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a news release.
That’s why we are continuing to support our seniors during this pandemic, with measures that will protect their health, and ensure their economic and social well-being,” he continued.
There is no application requirement for this funding, those who qualify will automatically receive it in the form of a direct deposit or government-issued cheque.
“As seniors stay safe by staying at home during COVID-19, their costs have gone up. Early on, we provided a special GST credit payment to help over 4 million seniors. Now we are providing a one-time, tax-free payment to all seniors eligible for Old Age Security, with extra support for the most vulnerable.” Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors, said in the same release.
Altogether, a low-income couple is receiving over $1,500 in support for increased costs during the pandemic. As we go through this unprecedented challenge, the government will continue to be there for Canadian seniors,” she continued.
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