- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Is there a seniors group in my community?
There are currently seniors organizations in the following
communities:
- 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.
- 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.
|