As of 2025, seniors in Canada can receive up to $2,902.34 per month through the Old Age Security (OAS) program, which includes additional support for low-income individuals. In this guide, we break down the eligibility requirements, how to maximize your benefits, and everything you need to know to ensure you are receiving the full financial assistance available to you.
What is the Old Age Security (OAS) Pension?
The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a monthly benefit provided to Canadian residents aged 65 and older. Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), the OAS is funded through the general tax revenues of the government, meaning it doesn’t require individual contributions.
How OAS Benefits Work
OAS payments depend on how long you have lived in Canada after turning 18. To receive the full pension, you must have lived in the country for at least 40 years. If you have lived in Canada for fewer than 40 years, you may still qualify for partial benefits.
OAS Payment Rates for 2025
For seniors aged 65 to 74, the maximum monthly OAS payment is $727.67, and for those aged 75 and older, it increases to $800.44. These amounts are adjusted quarterly in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to account for inflation.
Additional OAS Benefits
If your income is below a certain level, you could qualify for supplementary financial assistance through the following programs:
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
The GIS provides extra support to low-income seniors. The maximum GIS amount for a single person is $1,065.47 per month.
Eligibility: Must be receiving OAS and have an annual income of $21,456 or less. - Allowance
This benefit is for individuals aged 60 to 64 who have a spouse or common-law partner receiving both OAS and GIS.
Maximum Allowance: $1,455.22 per month. - Allowance for the Survivor
If you’re aged 60 to 64 and your spouse or common-law partner has passed away, you may qualify for this benefit, with a maximum monthly payment of $1,712.08.
Who is Eligible for OAS Benefits?
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To qualify for OAS, you must meet these criteria:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 65 years old.
- Residency Requirement: You must have lived in Canada for a minimum of 10 years after turning 18 to receive partial benefits. To qualify for full benefits, you must have resided in Canada for at least 40 years.
- Income Requirement: To avoid the OAS clawback, your income must be below a specified threshold. As of 2025, this threshold is $90,997 per year. If your income exceeds this amount, your OAS payments will be reduced or eliminated.
How to Apply for OAS Benefits
Applying for OAS is simple. Here’s how you can do it:
- Check Eligibility: Use the Service Canada eligibility tool to confirm if you qualify.
- Gather Documents: You will need proof of your age, residency, and income.
- Submit Your Application: You can apply online via your My Service Canada Account (MSCA), or you can apply by mail or in-person at a Service Canada office.
- Wait for Processing: It usually takes 6 to 8 weeks for your application to be processed.
Maximizing Your OAS Benefits
To get the most out of your OAS benefits, follow these tips:
- Defer OAS: You can delay your OAS payments until you turn 70 to receive an increased amount (0.6% per month, 7.2% per year).
- Minimize Taxable Income: Use tax credits and deductions to reduce your taxable income and avoid the OAS clawback.
- Split Pension Income: Pension income splitting may help lower your taxable income, increasing your eligibility for benefits.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any policy changes that may affect your benefits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the Application Deadline: Failing to apply on time could result in missed payments.
- Providing Incorrect Information: Ensure that your application matches official records to prevent delays.
- Not Planning Your Income: Effective financial planning can help you qualify for extra benefits, such as GIS.
FAQs About OAS Benefits
- Can I receive OAS if I live outside Canada?
Yes, but you must have lived in Canada for at least 20 years after turning 18 to continue receiving payments abroad. - What happens if my income exceeds the OAS threshold?
If your income surpasses the $90,997 limit, your OAS benefits will be reduced or completely withdrawn due to the clawback. - Can I work while receiving OAS?
Yes, there are no restrictions on working while collecting OAS; however, your income could affect your eligibility for additional benefits like GIS.
By understanding the various components of the OAS program and its associated benefits, you can ensure that you, or a loved one, receive the full support you’re entitled to during your retirement years.