Retiring in Nunavut: territorial tax and senior programs

Nunavut's 2026 tax brackets

For 2026, Nunavut charges 4% on taxable income up to $55,801, 7% up to $111,602, 9% up to $181,439 and 11.5% above that. The 2026 territorial basic personal amount is $19,659.

Territorial tax applies to the same taxable income as federal tax, including CPP, OAS, pension payments and RRIF withdrawals. The table and worked example on this page are generated from these 2026 figures.

Federal tax still does the heavy lifting

Because territorial rates are low, the federal brackets account for most of a Nunavut retiree's income tax. The 2026 federal rate is 14% up to $58,523 and 20.5% above, and OAS recovery tax applies at 15% of net income above $95,323 in 2026.

The retirement tax calculator shows the combined picture. If you are planning how to draw from savings, retirement income sources in Canada gives an overview of the pieces.

Nunavut programs for older residents

The Senior Fuel Subsidy helps homeowners aged 60 or older offset the high cost of heating fuel. It is income-tested, homeowners apply each year, and the local Income Assistance Worker helps with the application.

The Senior Citizen Supplementary Benefit is a monthly territorial payment for low-income seniors, added to the federal OAS payment for those who qualify for GIS or the Allowance. Because it depends on federal eligibility, applying for GIS through Service Canada is the step that matters. Our GIS guide explains how GIS is assessed.

Most territorial supports for older residents are delivered through regional Income Assistance offices in the Kivalliq, Qikiqtani and Kitikmeot regions, so those offices are a practical first contact for questions about eligibility, documents and deadlines.

What the tax estimate includes

The worked example on this page uses the 2026 federal and Nunavut brackets and both basic personal amounts. It leaves out the age amount, the pension income amount, dividend and capital gains treatment and other credits, so for many retirees actual tax is somewhat lower than shown. Northern residents deductions are not included either.

Use the figures to compare scenarios, such as drawing more from savings before OAS begins or after, rather than to predict a filed return. Dated official figures are gathered on key figures, and the methodology page explains the assumptions.

What to check locally

• That you renew the Senior Fuel Subsidy each year, with the previous year's Notice of Assessment.
• Whether you have applied for GIS, which drives the Supplementary Benefit.
• Whether the northern residents deductions apply to you.
• The current income limits for the fuel subsidy with your regional Income Assistance office.
• Any territorial budget changes to brackets or credits.

Planning tools

Choose Nunavut in the retirement plan tool to see territorial tax through retirement, and compare other regions on the provincial benefits hub.