Will retired Canadians get a $250 rebate : Know the full truth and options If you’ve recently heard about the “$250 Working Canadians Rebate” and are wondering if retired Canadians will get this benefit in 2025, you’re not alone. It’s become a hot topic among seniors and those living on fixed incomes across the country. In this article, we’ll tell you the whole truth — who is eligible for this rebate, who is not, and what options are available for seniors who will miss out on this rebate.
What is the $250 Working Canadians Rebate?
This rebate was proposed by the Canadian government in November 2024, aimed at providing relief to working citizens struggling with rising inflation, housing costs, and everyday needs.
This is a one-time, tax-free payment of $250, which is to be given only to those who have worked in 2023.
This rebate is not universal — that means it will not be available to everyone. It will be available only to those who were earning in 2023 and who have claimed certain tax credits.
Detailed eligibility criteria: If you are wondering if you or someone you know can get this rebate, read the eligibility criteria carefully below:
Setback for retired citizens — Why are they not eligible for this rebate?
This rebate is designed keeping in mind “working citizens”. This simply means that senior citizens who were not doing any work in 2023 and were dependent only on pension, investments, or government benefits are not eligible for this rebate This decision is disappointing for many senior citizens, especially those who are now living on limited income after serving for years. Though the government has presented it as a “reward” for working citizens, the decision has been heavily criticized by senior groups and activists.
Is this rebate implemented yet?
Although the $250 Working Canadians Rebate was proposed by the federal government in November 2024, further development of the plan is currently on hold after Parliament prorogued in January 2025. Because of this, the plan has not yet become law.
As of April 2025, no payments have been issued to anyone under this rebate. There has been no new update from the government, nor has the application process started.
If the plan is implemented in the future, eligible citizens will be paid under it automatically — meaning you will not need to fill out any forms or apply, provided you filed your 2023 tax return on time.
What if you are not eligible for the rebate?
No need to worry. There are already several types of financial support for seniors from the government and provinces:
Old Age Security (OAS): This is a monthly payment that citizens age 65 and older receive.
In 2025, those aged 65 to 74 receive approximately $713.34 per month and those 75+ receive more.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): An additional support for low-income citizens receiving OAS.
If your annual income is less than ~$21,000, you may be entitled to up to $1,065 per month in GIS.
Provincial assistance plans Each province has its own plan:
- Ontario – GAINS (Guaranteed Annual Income System)
- British Columbia – Seniors Supplement
- Alberta – Alberta Seniors Benefit
- Quebec – Senior Assistance Amount
Expert advice: Don’t miss out on these benefits
Many seniors don’t file tax returns thinking that their income is too low. But this is a big mistake.
Even if you don’t owe taxes, you should file taxes so that you can get:
- GIS
- GST/HST Credit
- Climate Action Incentive
- Provincial benefits
What if you are not eligible for a rebate?
No need to worry. There are already many types of financial help for the elderly from the government and provinces:
Old Age Security (OAS): This is a monthly payment that citizens 65 years of age or older receive.
In 2025, those aged 65 to 74 receive approximately $713.34 per month and those 75+ receive more.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): An additional support amount for low-income citizens receiving OAS.
If your annual income is less than ~$21,000, you may be entitled to up to $1,065 per month in GIS.
Provincial Assistance Plans:
- Ontario – GAINS (Guaranteed Annual Income System)
- British Columbia – Seniors Supplement
- Alberta – Alberta Seniors Benefit
- Quebec – Senior Assistance Amount
Expert Advice: Don’t miss out on these benefits
Many elderly citizens don’t file tax returns thinking their income is too low. But this is a big mistake.
Even if you don’t owe taxes, file your taxes so you can get:
- GIS
- GST/HST Credit
- Climate Action Incentive
- Provincial Benefits
Maya’s Experience
Although the $250 Working Canadians Rebate was proposed by the federal government in November 2024, further development of the scheme is currently on hold after Parliament was prorogued in January 2025. Due to this, the scheme has not yet become law. As of April 2025, no payments have been issued to anyone under this rebate. There has been no new update from the government, nor has the application process started. If the scheme is implemented in the future, eligible citizens will be paid under it automatically — that is, you will not have to fill out any form or apply, provided you have filed your 2023 tax return on time.
Conclusion
The $250 Working Canadians Rebate is a great move — but only for those who were working in 2023. Most retired citizens, especially those who are completely dependent on pensions and government assistance, will miss out on this rebate. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have any options. Other Government of Canada schemes like OAS, GIS, and provincial benefits are a strong support for seniors. All you have to do is file your taxes, review your benefits, and keep an eye on government announcements from time to time. This way you will be able to get what you are really entitled to.
FAQs
Q.1 Are all seniors excluded from this rebate?
A. No. Seniors who were working or self-employed in 2023 may be eligible.
Q.2 Do I have to apply for this rebate?
A. No. If applied for, it will be automatically issued based on your tax filing.
Q.3 When will you receive the rebate?
A. There is no specific date yet, as the proposal is pending in Parliament.
Q.4 What if I am not eligible?
A. Check OAS, GIS and other provincial benefits. Don’t forget to file taxes on time.
Q.5 Can those receiving CPP get OAS or GIS?
A. Yes, CPP is a separate plan. If you fall within the income limits, you can get both OAS and GIS.
