The 55 PLUS Program, also known as the 55 Plus Manitoba Income Supplement, offers two main components to cater to different groups within the senior population:

1. Junior Component: The Junior Component assists individuals 55 years of age or older who are not eligible for benefits under the federal Old Age Security (OAS) Program.

2. Senior Component: The Senior Component is for those already receiving benefits under the OAS Program. Benefits in this component vary based on family composition, net family income, and federal OAS benefits received.

To qualify for the 55 PLUS Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be 55 years of age or older.
• Reside in Manitoba.
• Have an income within the allowable ranges specified by the program.

Note: Those receiving Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) are not eligible, but those who receive only health care benefits from income assistance may still qualify.

Manitoba 55 PLUS Program Income Limits for 2024

The program provides quarterly benefits, with maximum payments of $161.80 for single individuals and $173.90 for each eligible person in a married or common-law relationship. These benefits are based on your eligible component:

1. Junior Component: Offers partial benefits to single individuals with an annual income up to $9,746.40 and couples with a family income up to $16,255.20.

2. Senior Component: Benefits are calculated based on family composition, net family income, and the type and level of benefits received under the federal Old Age Security Program.

Manitoba 55 PLUS Maximum Benefit

Applying for the 55 PLUS Program is straightforward. Here's how to navigate the application process:

Required Information

Applicants need to provide:

• Social Insurance Number
• Manitoba Health Number
• Copy of the previous year’s tax return to verify income, such as all T slips, schedules and statements of income and expenses. This is not your Notice of Assessment.

How to Apply

For those not receiving OAS benefits:

1. Download the Application Form: Obtain the form from the Manitoba government website or contact the 55 PLUS office.

2. Complete the Form: Fill out all required sections and attach relevant documents.

3. Submit the Application: You can submit your application in person or by fax to the 55 PLUS office.

For those receiving OAS benefits:

• You do not need to apply separately; your eligibility is automatically determined based on the benefits you receive from OAS.

Contact Information

For additional information or assistance with the application process, contact:

Provincial Services
100 – 114 Garry Street
Winnipeg, MB R3C 4V4
Phone: 204-948-7368
Toll-Free: 1-877-587-6224
Email: incsup@gov.mb.ca

Payment Schedule

Benefits are mailed four times yearly: in late April, July, October, and January. You will receive a benefit cheque for each three-month period.

Federal Programs

• Old Age Security (OAS): A federal benefit offering a monthly payment to seniors aged 65 and older.
• Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): This federal supplement provides additional financial support to low-income seniors receiving OAS.

Provincial Programs

Ontario

• Ontario Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS): Provides up to $87 per month for single seniors and $174 per month for couples.
• Ontario Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant (OSHPTG): Receive up to $500 annually to help ease the burden of property tax.

Alberta

• Alberta Seniors Benefit: Offers up to $3,792 annually for single seniors and $5,687 for senior couples, along with an additional supplement for those residing in continuing care homes.

British Columbia

• BC Senior's Supplement: Provides up to $99.30 per month for single seniors and up to $110.25 per month for couples.
• BC Home Owner Grant for Seniors: Helps seniors cover their property tax with a yearly payment of up to $1,045.

Quebec

• Quebec Senior Assistance Tax Credit: A tax credit of $2,000 for single seniors or $4,000 for couples over the age of 70.

Q: When is the benefit year for the 55 PLUS Program?

A: The benefit year runs from April 1 to March 31.

Q: When will I receive my benefit cheques?

A: Benefits are mailed four times a year, in late April, July, October, and January.

Q: Do I need to apply each year?

A: No, you do not need to reapply each year if you currently receive the Old Age Security pension. If you do not receive OAS, you must apply each year.