Retirees and near-retirees in Quebec can expect several March 2026 government benefit payments, including deposits from the Canada Revenue Agency, Revenu Québec, and Retraite Québec.

Key programs include the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP), Old Age Security (OAS), Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), the Allowance, and the Solidarity Tax Credit. Most payments are issued automatically, but some require an application.

Major March 2026 payment dates range from March 5 to March 31.

Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) — March 31, 2026

The Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) provides retirement income to those who contributed while working in Quebec.

Eligibility

• Must have contributed for at least one year
• Earned more than $3,500 annually in employment income
• Can apply starting at age 60

Starting earlier reduces payments. Delaying increases them.

Maximum Monthly QPP Amounts (2026)

• Age 65 (full pension): $1,507.65
• Age 60 (reduced): $964.90
• Age 72 (deferred maximum): $2,394.15

Payment date: March 31, 2026

Old Age Security (OAS) — March 27, 2026

The Old Age Security (OAS) is a federal pension available at age 65, regardless of employment history.

Residency Requirements

• Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Lived in Canada at least 10 years after age 18
• 20 years required if living abroad

Benefits are indexed quarterly (January, April, July, October).

March 2026 OAS Maximum Payments

• Ages 65–74: Up to $742.31
• Age 75+: Up to $816.54

Income thresholds apply before clawbacks begin.

Payment date: March 27, 2026

Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) — March 27, 2026

The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) provides additional tax-free support to low-income seniors receiving OAS.

Eligibility

• Age 65+
• Receiving OAS
• Income below annual thresholds

March 2026 GIS Range

• Between $667 and $1,109 per month, depending on marital status and income

Amounts are reviewed quarterly.

Payment date: March 27, 2026

The Allowance (Ages 60–64) — March 27, 2026

The Allowance supports individuals aged 60–64 whose spouse receives OAS and GIS.

Eligibility

• Aged 60–64
• Living in Canada
• Lived in Canada at least 10 years after 18
• Combined couple income under $41,500

Maximum Monthly Amount

• Up to approximately $1,410, depending on income

If the spouse dies, the benefit converts to Survivor’s Allowance.

Payment date: March 27, 2026

Survivor’s Allowance — March 27, 2026

The Survivor’s Allowance assists widowed individuals aged 60–64.

Eligibility

• Widowed
• Not remarried or in common-law relationship
• Income below $30,216

Maximum Monthly Payment

• Up to $1,680, depending on prior-year income

Payment date: March 27, 2026

Solidarity Tax Credit — March 5, 2026

Administered by Revenu Québec, the Solidarity Tax Credit supports low-income Quebec residents.

Income Threshold (2024 Tax Year)

• Single person eligible if income under $63,259

Payment Structure

• $240 or less: Lump sum (July 2025)
• $241–$799: Quarterly payments
• $800+: Monthly payments until June 2026

Next payment date: March 5, 2026

Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) reimburses dental expenses for households earning under $90,000 annually.

Payments are issued after claims are reviewed — there is no fixed monthly deposit date.

March 2026 Payment Calendar (Quebec Seniors)

Program	Payment Date
Solidarity Tax Credit	March 5
OAS	March 27
GIS	March 27
Allowance	March 27
Survivor’s Allowance	March 27
QPP	March 31

Why These Payments Matter

With inflation affecting housing, groceries, and healthcare, these indexed and income-tested benefits help:

• Stabilize retirement income
• Reduce poverty among seniors
• Provide predictable monthly cash flow
• Support widowed and low-income couples

For some households, combined payments can exceed $3,000 per month, depending on eligibility.

What You Should Do Now

To ensure you receive all eligible benefits:

• File your 2024 tax return
• Verify direct deposit details in CRA and Revenu Québec accounts
• Apply early if turning 60 or 65
• Review income thresholds to avoid unexpected clawbacks

Most payments are automatic, but GIS, Allowance, and Survivor benefits may require an application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is OAS paid in March 2026?

OAS will be paid on March 27, 2026.

How much is the maximum QPP payment?

Up to $1,507.65 at age 65 and $2,394.15 if deferred to age 72.

Who qualifies for GIS?

Low-income seniors aged 65+ who already receive OAS.

Is the Solidarity Tax Credit automatic?

Yes, if you file taxes and meet income requirements.

Do I need to apply for the Allowance?

Yes. Eligible individuals aged 60–64 must apply through Service Canada.

Are these benefits taxable?

OAS and QPP are taxable; GIS and Allowance are tax-free.

How can I check my eligibility?

Log into CRA My Account or Revenu Québec’s portal.