Seniors
Benefits for Seniors in Nova Scotia: OAS, GIS, Grants & More
Updated May 28, 2026
Benefits for Seniors in Nova Scotia
If you are 65 or older in Nova Scotia, there are federal and provincial benefits that can make a significant difference. Many are automatic if you file your taxes, but some require applications.
Federal Benefits
Old Age Security (OAS) — Monthly pension for most Canadians 65+. You may be automatically enrolled. Check with Service Canada at 1-800-277-9914. Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) — Extra monthly payment for low-income seniors who receive OAS. Can add hundreds of dollars per month. File your taxes every year to stay eligible. Allowance for 60–64 Year Olds — If your spouse/partner receives GIS, or you have lost your spouse, you may qualify for monthly payments starting at age 60.Provincial Benefits
Seniors Care Grant — $500/year for seniors receiving GIS with income under $26,000 (or $42,000 for couples). Apply through Service Nova Scotia. Seniors' Property Tax Rebate — Up to $800 rebate on municipal property taxes for seniors 65+ receiving GIS. Call 1-800-670-4357. Seniors' Pharmacare — Prescription drug coverage for Nova Scotians 65+. Premiums based on income — low-income seniors pay nothing. Call 1-800-544-6191. Home Care Nova Scotia — In-home personal care, nursing, and home support so you can stay in your own home. Income-tested. Call 1-800-225-7225.Free Dental Care
The Canadian Dental Care Plan provides free dental coverage for seniors with family income under $70,000 and no private dental insurance. Call 1-833-537-4342.
Community Supports
- VON — Meals on Wheels, adult day programs, foot care, and falls prevention. Call 902-453-5800.
- Caregivers Nova Scotia — Support for unpaid family caregivers. Call 902-421-7390.
- Alzheimer Society of NS — Support for people with dementia and caregivers. Call 902-422-7961.
Check What You Qualify For
Use Aidvocate's seniors quiz to find all the benefits you may be eligible for.Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Seniors Care Grant in Nova Scotia?
- A $500 annual grant for seniors 65+ who receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and have income under $26,000 (or $42,000 for couples). Apply through Service Nova Scotia.
- How do I get free dental care as a senior in Nova Scotia?
- The Canadian Dental Care Plan provides free dental coverage for seniors with family income under $70,000 and no private dental insurance. Call 1-833-537-4342 to apply.
- What home care is available for seniors in Nova Scotia?
- Home Care Nova Scotia provides personal care, nursing, and home support so you can stay in your home. It is income-tested — low-income seniors may pay nothing. Call 1-800-225-7225.
Find out what you qualify for
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