Seniors Income Plan (SIP)

A monthly supplement is provided to seniors who have little or no income other than the federal Old Age Security (OAS) pension and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).

The table below shows the maximum SIP benefit seniors can receive and the taxable income levels (excluding the federal OAS pension and GIS) where the SIP benefit becomes $0, based on client category. *Effective April 1, 2018

SIP recipients with active basic Saskatchewan Health coverage are eligible for a variety of additional health benefits including:

• One eye examination in each 12-month period.
• A reduced semi-annual deductible under the Drug Plan and Extended Benefits.
• Loan of some low-cost devices through Saskatchewan Abilities Council.
• Supplementary health benefits for Seniors Income Plan recipients living in special care homes.
• Please note that health coverage for Status Indian (as defined by the Indian Act) SIP recipients is covered by Health Canada. For more information please call 1-866-885-3933.

You are eligible to receive the Seniors Income Plan benefits if:

• you are 65 years of age or older;
• you are a permanent resident of Saskatchewan;
• you receive full or partial OAS pension and GIS; and
• you have annual income below a specified level.

What is considered income?

• All personal income that is taxable for income tax purposes, regardless of whether or not you pay income tax. This can include: Canada Pension Plan payments, bank and bond interest, dividend payments, private pensions and wages.
• This does not include the Old Age Security pension and Guaranteed Income Supplement.
• Assets are not considered in determining eligibility.

• Seniors must complete an initial application for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
• The income you report on your GIS application (and/or previous year’s income tax return) determines your eligibility.
• You will automatically receive Seniors Income Plan (SIP) benefits if you qualify.
• If you are entitled to the maximum GIS, you are also entitled to the maximum SIP benefit. An increase in your income will lower the GIS entitlement and your SIP benefit.
• Each year after that, the income reported on your income tax return determines your eligibility and the amount of the monthly federal and provincial supplements to be paid to  you.
• Eligibility is reassessed each year in July.

Related materials for seniors can be found in the Publications Centre.