Canada and USA – can we spend half a year in each? Why would this even be a question? It’s because some people don’t have a “permanent” residence in Canada other than an RV Park or perhaps other seasonal living arrangements. These are often closed during winter months in Canada.
Or, folks just want to miss the 6 months of poor skiing and get far away from the largely miserable winter weather found in much of Canada in the late fall and winter, and be warmer!
Elizabeth L. recently asked “How do we become Snowbirds? We have a home in Florida but are planning to retire this fall. How long can we stay in the USA as Canadians. We have a cottage we can use in the Summer months. Thank you”.
Can a too long stay in the U.S. affect Canadian benefits?
There is no one answer. It will depend on the province in which the prospective Snowbird lives, and what their “relationship” with Canada’s government pension and old age security are.
Guaranteed Income Supplement
For example “You cannot collect the Guaranteed Income Supplement if you are outside of Canada for more than 6 (consecutive) months. If you plan to leave Canada for more than 6 months, you must contact us to avoid an overpayment. Service Canada compares information with the Canada Border Services Agency.”
Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/old-age-security/guaranteed-income-supplement/while-receiving.html
On the other hand, if you are staying in the U.S. for up to 6 consecutive months, you can continue to collect the GIS.
More to come on this page… please check back.