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Frequently Asked Questions

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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  1. How long before I am 65 should I apply for my pensions?

  2. Can I get my Canadian Pension before I turn 65?

  3. What things should I think about before I decide to take my Canada Pension?

  4. Can I have my pension deposited directly into my bank account?

  5. Where can I get help to answer all my questions or talk about my problems?

  6. I own my own home.  I need help with the high cost of heating in the winter months.  Is there any program to help me with this?

  7. My mother is not able to live in her house anymore.  Where can I get help to find a place for her to live?

  8. Is there a seniors group in my community?

  9. My glasses are old and broken but I cannot afford to buy new glasses now that I am on a pension.  Where can I get help to get glasses that I can afford?

  10. How do I get a Seniors' card?

 

Seniors’ Information Line

1-800-661-0878


  1. How long before I am 65 should I apply for my pensions?

You should apply for your pension six months before you turn 65.  It is a good idea to have someone help you fill out the forms and give yourself time to get all the papers and documents you need to send along with your application.


  1. Can I get my Canadian Pension before I turn 65?

Yes, you may apply for your Canada Pension at 60 years of age.  Once you qualify for your pension you can still work and receive the pension.  You should talk to someone about how to apply and consider that you will be receiving a smaller amount of pension if you start receiving it before you turn 65.


  1. What things should I think about before I decide to take my Canada Pension?

It depends on your situation.  When you choose to begin receiving your pension, you should think about:

  • whether or not you are still earning or do you want to stop work completely;
  • how long you have paid into the Canada Pension Plan;
  • your health;
  • other retirement pension plans; and
  • how much money you will need to live comfortably.

The decision is yours.


  1. Can I have my pension deposited directly into my bank account?

Yes, when you apply for your Canada Pension you may indicate on the form that you want to have Direct Deposit.  You will need to provide your banking information.


  1. Where can I get help to answer all my questions or talk about my problems?

You can get help with any questions about pensions, housing, income, homecare, personal problems and elder abuse by calling the Seniors' Information Line at 1-800-661-0878 or (867) 920-7444.  They are available from 8:00 - 4:00 Monday to Friday.  If they are unable to answer all your questions they can help direct you to the office or person who can help. 


  1. I own my own home.  I need help with the high cost of heating in the winter months.  Is there any program to help me with this?

You may apply for assistance with heating your home by contacting the Income Support Programs office in your community or by calling the Seniors' Information Line.


  1. My mother is not able to live in her house anymore.  Where can I get help to find a place for her to live?

You can call the Seniors' Information Line.  They can talk to you about what your mother needs.  They can also help you find the names of seniors' homes in your community.  You can call 1-800-661-0878 or (867) 920-7444.


  1. Is there a seniors group in my community?

There are currently seniors organizations in the following communities:


  1. My glasses are old and broken but I cannot afford to buy new glasses now that I am on a pension.  Where can I get help to get glasses that I can afford?

The Department of Health & Social Services has an Extended Health Benefit program that provides financial assistance for getting new eyeglasses.  You may contact the Seniors' Information Line for help to find out how much you are allowed and what you need to do to get this assistance.  You can also contact Extended Health Benefits Program directly by calling 1-800-661-0830 or  (867) 777-7400.


  1. How do I get a Seniors' card?

You receive a card when you apply and qualify for the Old Age Security program.  The card will come to you in the mail about one to two months after you get your first cheque.


Last Updated:  November 07, 2005

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