The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is one of Canada’s most important federal retirement programs, providing monthly income support to seniors aged 65 and older. If you’re nearing retirement, it’s essential to understand the Old Age Security age eligibility 2025, how much you can expect to receive, and when payments will arrive. This article, based on the latest updates from Canada.ca, provides complete details on OAS payment amounts, payment dates, and inflation-based increases for 2025.
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OAS Payment Dates for 2025
The Old Age Security payment dates for 2025 are confirmed and scheduled monthly by the Government of Canada. If you receive direct deposit, your funds will typically be available in your bank account on these dates:
- January 29, 2025
- February 26, 2025
- March 27, 2025
- April 28, 2025
- May 28, 2025
- June 26, 2025
- July 29, 2025
- August 27, 2025
- September 25, 2025
- October 29, 2025
- November 26, 2025
- December 22, 2025
These Old Age Security payment dates 2025 also apply to paper cheques, though delivery may take longer depending on Canada Post timelines.
Old Age Security Age Eligibility 2025
To qualify for Old Age Security in 2025, you must meet the following conditions:
If you live in Canada:
- Be 65 years of age or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
If you live outside Canada:
- You must have been a Canadian citizen or legal resident when you left
- You must have lived in Canada for at least 20 years after turning 18
💡 Tip: Your employment history does not affect your OAS eligibility. You can receive OAS even if you’ve never worked or contributed to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP).
Automatic Enrollment and Application
Most eligible seniors are automatically enrolled in the Old Age Security pension. If Service Canada has enough information—such as your Social Insurance Number and income tax filings—you will receive a notification letter.
If not, you must apply online through your CRA My Account or submit a paper application.
OAS Payment Amounts in 2025
As of January to March 2025, here are the maximum monthly OAS payment amounts:
| Age Group | Monthly OAS Payment | Income Threshold (2023 Net World Income) |
|---|---|---|
| 65 to 74 | $727.67 | Less than $142,609 |
| 75 and older | $800.44 | Less than $148,179 |
OAS Increases from July to September 2025
Effective July 2025, Old Age Security benefits will increase by 1.0% to reflect rising inflation, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This adjustment raises total OAS payments by 2.3% over the past 12 months, from July 2024 to July 2025.
This quarterly adjustment ensures that the OAS pension keeps pace with the cost of living. These CPI-based increases are reviewed and applied four times per year — in January, April, July, and October.
Summary of Recent Adjustments:
- +1.0% increase for July–September 2025
- +2.3% total OAS increase year-over-year
This means that seniors will see a modest but meaningful boost in their monthly OAS cheques for the second half of 2025.
Can You Receive OAS Outside of Canada?
Yes. You can continue receiving Old Age Security payments abroad if:
- You lived in Canada for at least 20 years after age 18, or
- You worked in a country that has a social security agreement with Canada
⚠️ However, note that GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement) payments will stop if you are outside of Canada for more than 6 months.
Additional OAS-Related Benefits for Low-Income Seniors
In addition to the basic Old Age Security pension, seniors with low income may qualify for additional benefits:
1. Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Available to OAS recipients with low or no income
- Paid monthly and not taxable
- Eligibility depends on your annual income
2. Allowance (for 60–64-year-old spouses/partners of GIS recipients)
- Based on combined income and age
- Must be a legal resident of Canada
3. Allowance for the Survivor
- For low-income seniors aged 60–64 whose spouse or common-law partner has passed away
These payments are also disbursed on the same Old Age Security payment dates 2025.
Deferring OAS: Higher Payments If You Wait
If you choose to delay your OAS pension beyond age 65, your monthly payments will increase:
- OAS increases by 0.6% for every month delayed
- That’s 7.2% per year
- If you wait until age 70, your payment increases by 36%
This strategy can be valuable for seniors with other retirement income sources or who expect a longer lifespan.
Final Thoughts: What to Expect for OAS in 2025
- Old Age Security age eligibility 2025 remains at 65 years
- Payment amounts will rise in July 2025 by 1.0%
- Year-over-year OAS benefits increased 2.3% from July 2024 to July 2025
- Monthly payments help seniors maintain purchasing power amid inflation
- Eligible seniors may also receive GIS, Allowance, or Survivor Benefits
- The full schedule of Old Age Security payment dates 2025 helps retirees budget effectively