Canadian Allowance and Allowance for the Survivor/Allowance - Canadian Glossary

Paid to the spouse of an old age security pensioner or widow or widower who is between the ages of 60 to 64 years and has resided in Canada for at least 10 years after the age of 18 years. It is income tested. It ceases to be paid under the following circumstances:

• after the month in which the recipient reaches age 65 years and becomes eligible for an old age security pension,
• if the beneficiary is absent from Canada for more than 6 months, and
• if, in the case of a couple, the couple become separated or divorced, or if, in the case of a widow or widower, the beneficiary remarries.

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Last reviewed: 7 June 2010