The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a monthly payment available to Canadians aged 65 and older. It is one of the main pillars of Canada’s public retirement income system, along with the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
Unlike the CPP, you can receive OAS even if you never worked or paid taxes, as it’s based mainly on your age and years of residence in Canada.
Service Canada automatically enrolls many seniors, but if you don’t receive a letter the month after turning 64, you’ll need to apply manually.
OAS Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the OAS pension, you must meet the following conditions:
- You are 65 years old or older.
- You are a Canadian citizen or legal resident when your OAS application is approved.
- You have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18.
If you live outside Canada, you must have lived in the country for at least 20 years after age 18.
Your years of residence determine whether you receive a full or partial pension. A full OAS pension requires roughly 40 years of residence in Canada after age 18.
OAS Payment Amounts in 2025
The amount you receive from OAS depends on your income level and age. If your annual income exceeds a specific threshold, your payment may be reduced.
| Age Group | Maximum Monthly Payment (2025) | Income Limit for Full OAS |
|---|---|---|
| 65 to 74 | $734.95 | $148,541 |
| 75 and older | $808.45 | $154,196 |
You may also qualify for additional support, such as the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), if your income is below a certain level.
How to Apply for OAS
1. Automatic Enrollment
Most Canadians are automatically enrolled when they reach 65 if Service Canada already has enough information about them. You’ll receive a letter confirming your enrollment and payment start date.
2. Manual Application
If you are not automatically enrolled, you can:
- Apply online through your My Service Canada Account.
- Mail your completed OAS application form to the address provided by Service Canada.
When you apply, you can choose to:
- Start receiving payments immediately at age 65, or
- Delay your OAS payments for up to 5 years (until age 70).
Maximizing Your OAS Benefits
You can increase or maintain your OAS payments by following these tips:
- Delay your OAS start date: Each month you delay past age 65 increases your payment by 0.6%, up to a maximum of 36% at age 70.
- Avoid income clawbacks: The government reduces your OAS payments if your annual income exceeds the threshold. Managing your retirement withdrawals can help you keep more of your benefit.
- Keep your records updated: Ensure Service Canada has your correct address, marital status, and tax information to prevent delays or overpayments.
- Continue living in Canada: The longer you reside in Canada after age 18, the closer you get to qualifying for the full OAS pension.
- File your taxes annually: Even if you owe no taxes, filing ensures your OAS and GIS benefits are calculated correctly.
Important Payment Information
- OAS payments are made monthly, typically on the third last business day of each month.
- You can receive direct deposit to your bank account in Canada or abroad.
- Payments are adjusted quarterly based on inflation through the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Example of How Residence Affects Payment
| Years Lived in Canada After Age 18 | Percentage of Full OAS Pension |
|---|---|
| 10 years | 25% (partial pension) |
| 20 years | 50% |
| 30 years | 75% |
| 40 years or more | 100% (full pension) |
The Old Age Security pension remains one of the most vital retirement supports in Canada. Understanding how to qualify, when to apply, and how to maximize your benefit can make a significant difference in your financial stability after retirement.
Whether you’re approaching age 65 or planning ahead, take the time to verify your eligibility, review your residence history, and decide whether deferring payments fits your long-term financial goals.
By planning strategically, you can enjoy a comfortable, worry-free retirement with the full advantage of Canada’s OAS pension system.
FAQs
Can I still get OAS if I live outside Canada?
Yes. You can receive OAS payments abroad if you have lived in Canada for at least 20 years after age 18 before moving away.
What if I miss my OAS automatic enrollment letter?
If you do not receive a letter the month after turning 64, apply manually through My Service Canada Account or by mail.
Does OAS increase automatically after age 75?
Yes. Starting at age 75, your OAS payment amount automatically increases by about 10%, providing higher monthly income for older seniors.