The $1,551 Seniors’ Benefit is an annual, tax-free payment offered to eligible seniors in Newfoundland & Labrador (NL). Even though it’s a provincial program, it is delivered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) together with your GST/HST credit payments. Because of that pairing, no separate application is required.
Who Qualifies for This Benefit Of $1,551?
To receive the full or partial amount, you must meet all the following:
- Be a resident of Newfoundland & Labrador
- Be 65 years or older (or your spouse/common-law partner is 65+)
- File your annual tax return so CRA can assess eligibility
- Have adjusted family net income within specific thresholds:
- To receive the full $1,551, your income must be $30,078 or less
- If your income is between $30,078 and $43,380, you may receive a reduced, partial amount
No special paperwork is required beyond your regular tax filing — the CRA determines eligibility based on what they already know from your return.
$1,551 and When You’ll Get Money in 2025
The total maximum amount is $1,551 per year, paid out in four quarterly instalments. The instalments are bundled with your GST/HST credit, so if you’re eligible, you’ll receive both on the same dates.
2025 $1,551 Payment Dates
- January 3, 2025
- April 4, 2025
- July 4, 2025
- October 29, 2025
The CRA often adjusts for weekends or holidays by issuing the payment on the preceding business day.
Because the benefit is indexed to inflation (CPI) starting July 2025, the 2025 instalments may be slightly higher than in earlier years to help maintain purchasing power.
How the Benefit Works in Practice
- Single seniors or senior couples may qualify
- Each instalment will accompany your GST/HST credit payment
- CRA adjusts for income phase-out — higher incomes in the specified range get reduced amounts
- Direct deposit is the usual method; cheques are possible if you don’t have direct deposit set up
- Keep your personal info up to date (address, marital status, banking) in CRA’s system
At a Glance: Key Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | NL Seniors’ Benefit (paid via CRA) |
| Maximum Amount | $1,551 annually |
| Eligibility | NL resident, senior in household, tax return filed |
| Income Thresholds | Full benefit: ≤ $30,078; Partial: $30,078–$43,380 |
| 2025 Payment Dates | Jan 3, Apr 4, Jul 4, Oct 29 |
| Indexation | Starts July 2025 (CPI-based) |
| Delivery | With GST/HST credit (direct deposit or cheque) |
Differences From OAS & GIS
It’s important not to conflate this provincial benefit with federal programs such as Old Age Security (OAS) or the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
OAS and GIS are separate, monthly payments under federal jurisdiction and have their own eligibility rules and indexation schedules.
Tips to Ensure You Receive It
- File your tax return each year — that’s how CRA evaluates eligibility
- Verify your CRA account information — address, marital status, bank account
- Be aware of quarterly payment dates so you know when to expect funds
- Keep track of income limits, especially if your income changes
- Look for slight incremental increases starting in July 2025, thanks to indexing
The $1,551 CRA Seniors’ Benefit is not a new federal pension, but a provincial benefit for seniors in Newfoundland & Labrador, delivered via the CRA alongside the GST/HST credit.
If you’re a senior (or part of a senior couple), live in NL, and earn within the prescribed income levels, you may receive up to $1,551 per year, disbursed in four quarterly payments in 2025.
By maintaining your tax filings, updating your personal information, and understanding payment dates and thresholds, you can make sure you receive the maximum benefit you’re entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the $1,551 benefit available to seniors outside Newfoundland & Labrador?
No. This program is specific to Newfoundland & Labrador, although the CRA handles the payment along with GST/HST credits.
Do I have to separately apply to get this benefit?
No. As long as you file your taxes and meet eligibility rules, the CRA administers it automatically — no separate form required.
When are the 2025 payments made?
They are scheduled for January 3, April 4, July 4, and October 29, 2025.
