As inflation, automation, and financial insecurity continue to challenge Canadian households, the discussion around Universal Basic Income (UBI) has taken center stage in 2025.
While Canada has not yet launched a national UBI program, it remains at the forefront of policy innovation, with several active pilot projects and legislative proposals aiming to explore the real-world impact of basic income.
Whether you’re a citizen, policymaker, or researcher, it’s vital to understand where Canada stands on UBI today—and what may lie ahead.
What Is Universal Basic Income (UBI)?
Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a model in which every citizen receives a regular, unconditional cash payment, regardless of employment status, income, or assets. The goal is to reduce poverty, simplify social assistance, and provide economic stability.
In Canada, current efforts tend to focus on targeted basic income—support given to specific demographics, like low-income seniors, people with disabilities, or those without housing. While UBI is universal, Basic Income in Canada remains mostly selective for now.
A Quick Look at Canada’s Basic Income History
Canada has experimented with basic income concepts for decades:
| Year/Period | Program | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1930s | Alberta UBI discussions | Sparked during the Great Depression |
| 1974–1979 | Mincome Project (Manitoba) | Hospitalizations dropped by 8.5%, better education |
| 2017–2018 | Ontario Basic Income Pilot | Positive impacts before early cancellation |
These pilots laid the foundation for today’s debate, showcasing potential benefits such as improved health, education, and stress reduction.
Active UBI Pilot Programs in Canada (2025)
Several provinces are conducting ongoing or recent pilot projects, each with a targeted approach:
| Province/Territory | Program Name | Benefit | Target Group |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | New Leaf Project | $7,500 lump sum | Homeless individuals |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | Pre-OAS Income Plan | Monthly aid | Low-income, age 60–64 |
| Prince Edward Island | T-BIG Pilot | Top-up to 85% poverty line | 600+ low-income individuals |
| Quebec | Basic Income Program | ~$1,309/month | People with long-term disabilities |
New Leaf Project data showed fewer days of homelessness, better job outcomes, and no increase in substance use—dispelling common UBI myths.
Ongoing UBI Legislation in 2025
Two major federal bills are under review in Parliament:
- Bill S-233: Introduced by Senator Kim Pate, proposing a Guaranteed Livable Basic Income for all Canadians aged 17 and up
- Bill C-233: Introduced by MP Leah Gazan, supports a similar vision with broader income security provisions
Both bills aim to lay the groundwork for a permanent, national system. As of mid-2025, they are still being debated in committee stages.
Basic Income for Seniors
Canada already operates a quasi-basic income program for seniors via the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). Here’s how it looks in 2025:
| Criteria | Amount (Max 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single seniors 65+ | $1,087/month | Must receive OAS and meet low-income thresholds |
| Couples | Varies by income | Adjusted annually for inflation |
| Administered by | Old Age Security (OAS) | Provides monthly, tax-free payments to eligible seniors |
GIS continues to act as a baseline safety net, especially for low-income older adults.
Public Opinion and Political Support
Public support for UBI remains strong but divided over universal vs. targeted approaches:
- 60% of Canadians support guaranteed basic income
- 37% support a full-scale UBI
- In the 2021 federal election, 189 candidates supported basic income legislation
Support has grown post-pandemic, with many recognizing the benefits of unconditional income support during times of crisis.
Financial Feasibility and Future Potential
The Parliamentary Budget Officer estimates the cost of a national UBI at $87.6 billion per year. While costly, it could reduce poverty by over 40% and save billions long-term by lowering demand for:
- Emergency healthcare
- Homelessness services
- Crisis-based welfare programs
The current cost of poverty in Canada is estimated at $80 billion per year, suggesting that a UBI could be an investment in public health and stability.
Expert Views and Advocacy
Advocacy groups like the Basic Income Canada Network argue that UBI:
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Increases financial independence
- Does not reduce work motivation
- Empowers better education and employment choices
Experts view UBI as a tool for long-term economic resilience, especially in a world of automation and job uncertainty.
While Canada doesn’t yet have a national Universal Basic Income, 2025 has seen a surge in pilot projects, political momentum, and public dialogue.
With ongoing provincial pilots, active federal legislation, and increasing financial modelling, the path toward a guaranteed income system is becoming clearer.
Canada’s approach to UBI remains cautious but committed, aiming to find a balance between economic feasibility and social fairness.
Whether through regional programs or a national framework, basic income is shaping the future of Canada’s social safety net.
FAQs
Does Canada have a full Universal Basic Income program in 2025?
No, but several pilot projects and legislative efforts are underway to test and potentially expand basic income nationwide.
How much could a Universal Basic Income cost Canada?
A national UBI could cost around $87.6 billion annually, but may reduce poverty by over 40% and cut long-term social spending.
Are there any active UBI bills in Canada right now?
Yes, Bill S-233 and Bill C-233 are under Senate and House review, aiming to establish a Guaranteed Livable Basic Income.