If you’re a senior living in Canada or getting ready for retirement, you could receive up to $1,700 or more per month in 2025 from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS). These two federal programs provide a steady stream of income to help seniors maintain financial stability in retirement. This guide explains who qualifies, how much you could receive, how to apply, and when to expect payments.
Table of Contents
Overview
With inflation and the rising cost of living, every dollar matters. The federal government adjusts CPP and OAS payments annually to reflect economic changes. Together, they can provide more than $2,200 per month for eligible seniors, depending on age, work history, and income level.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Max CPP Payment (Age 65) | $1,433.00/month |
| Avg CPP Payment (Age 65) | $899.67/month |
| Max OAS Payment (Age 65–74) | $727.67/month |
| Max OAS Payment (75+) | $800.44/month |
| Max Combined Total | Up to $2,233.44/month |
| Eligibility Age | CPP: 60+; OAS: 65+ |
| CPP Application | Required |
| OAS Application | May be automatic |
| 2025 Payment Dates | Jan 29, Feb 26, Mar 27, Apr 28, May 28, Jun 26, Jul 29, Aug 27, Sep 25, Oct 29, Nov 26, Dec 22 |
What Is CPP
The Canada Pension Plan is a public retirement program that pays monthly benefits based on your work contributions. While working, CPP contributions are automatically deducted from your pay or included in self-employment taxes.
CPP Eligibility
You qualify for CPP if:
- You’re at least 60 years old
- You’ve made at least one valid CPP contribution
Your payment depends on how long and how much you contributed.
CPP Amounts (2025)
- Max payment at age 65: $1,433.00
- Average payment: $899.67
- If you delay past age 65: You earn up to 8.4% more per year
You can apply to start CPP anywhere between age 60 and 70, depending on your financial needs.
What Is OAS
Old Age Security is a monthly benefit funded by general tax revenue. It’s based on age and residency—not employment history or CPP contributions.
OAS Eligibility
You qualify for OAS if:
- You’re 65 or older
- You’ve lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18
- You are a Canadian citizen or legal resident
You may also qualify under international agreements if you’ve worked in another country.
OAS Amounts (2025)
- Ages 65–74: Up to $727.67
- Ages 75+: Up to $800.44
OAS payments are adjusted quarterly for inflation and may be reduced (clawed back) if your annual income exceeds $90,997 (2024 threshold).
Payment Dates
CPP and OAS payments follow the same schedule. Expect your money to arrive on these dates in 2025:
- January 29
- February 26
- March 27
- April 28
- May 28
- June 26
- July 29
- August 27
- September 25
- October 29
- November 26
- December 22
Make sure your banking information is updated to avoid delays.
How To Apply
CPP benefits are not automatic. You must apply.
Options to apply:
- Online: Through your My Service Canada Account
- By mail: Download, complete, and mail the CPP application form
When to apply: At least six months before you want your payments to begin.
Applying for OAS
OAS may be automatic if the government has enough information. If not, you’ll need to apply.
Steps:
- Check your My Service Canada Account
- If not automatically enrolled, apply online or by mail
- Apply six months before your 65th birthday
Tax And Extras
Both CPP and OAS are taxable. You’ll receive a T4A(P) form for CPP and a T4A(OAS) for OAS to include in your income tax return.
Additional Supports
You may qualify for:
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): For low-income seniors already receiving OAS
- Allowance: For the spouse or common-law partner (age 60–64) of a GIS recipient
- Allowance for the Survivor: For widowed seniors aged 60–64
Tips
Here’s how to make the most of your retirement benefits:
- Log in to your My Service Canada Account to check your CPP contribution history
- Delay CPP or OAS for higher monthly payments
- Keep your address and direct deposit information current
- Beware of scams: Service Canada will never ask for your banking info by text or unsolicited email
FAQs
How much CPP can I get at age 65?
Up to $1,433 per month in 2025 if you contributed the maximum.
When will OAS be paid in 2025?
OAS is paid monthly, on the same dates as CPP.
Do I need to apply for CPP?
Yes, CPP is not automatic and must be applied for.
Is OAS taxable?
Yes, OAS payments are taxable income and may be clawed back.
What is the GIS?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is extra support for low-income OAS recipients.
