Just Ask: How Do I Know If I Might Be Eligible for Income Supplements Like SAFER or GIS?
Hayley Toth | Sunshine Coast Resource Centre

If you’re a senior living on a fixed income, you know how quickly bills, rent, and groceries can add up. Some months, it may feel impossible to make ends meet—but you may be eligible for financial help that can make a real difference
What is not always widely known is that there are financial support programs specifically designed to help seniors with lower incomes. Two of the most commonly accessed programs are the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER). These benefits provide monthly financial support to help cover living costs, but the eligibility rules can feel confusing. Many seniors assume they do not qualify and never apply, meaning they miss out on assistance that could make a real difference.

The GIS is a federal program for seniors over 65 who receive Old Age Security (OAS) and have a modest income. Seniors may be eligible if they are single and earn less than about $22,400 a year, or if they are a couple with a combined income under $29,616 when their spouse or common-law partner receives the full OAS pension, or under $53,808 if their spouse or partner does not receive the OAS pension. The benefit tops up income to help meet basic needs, is non-taxable, and is reviewed each year based on your most recent income information. Filing your income tax annually is required to continue receiving or renewing GIS.

The SAFER program, offered through BC Housing, helps seniors aged 60 and older who rent in the private market. It provides a monthly subsidy to make rent more affordable. Seniors with annual incomes below around $40,000 and pay more than 30% of their monthly income towards rent may qualify, though the exact amount depends on rent, income, and certain allowable expenses. Like GIS, SAFER requires annual renewal.

Applying for these programs can feel overwhelming, especially if you are not comfortable with online forms or have not completed previous years’ tax returns. Missing tax filings can delay or stop payments. Understanding required documents and reporting income correctly can be tricky, and renewal letters can be confusing. This is where local support can make a real difference.
The Sunshine Coast Resource Centre provides free support to help seniors understand eligibility, gather documents, complete applications, and submit renewals. For those with simple tax situations, our Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) can also assist with filing last year’s or previous years’ taxes. There is no referral required and no cost for these services.

If you or someone you know is finding it harder to manage the cost of living, it is worth checking whether GIS or SAFER could help. Even a small increase in monthly income can relieve stress and help seniors continue living comfortably in their homes and communities.

The Sunshine Coast Resource Centre is your local hub for accessing community support and navigating government programs. Our office is at 5674 Cowrie Street, Sechelt, open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 2pm. We can also be reached at 604-885-4088 or help@resourcecentre.ca. Whether you have a quick question or need help with applications, just ask—we’re here to make sure no one has to navigate these systems alone.