As July 2025 draws to a close, Canadian seniors receiving government retirement benefits have a reason to pay attention — the next Old Age Security (OAS) payment is just days away. Even more importantly, July marks the beginning of a new benefit year, bringing an inflation-based increase in monthly payments.
If you’re currently receiving OAS or planning to apply, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of who qualifies, how much you could receive, and when payments will land in your bank account.
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What Is Old Age Security (OAS) in Canada?
OAS is a federally funded monthly benefit available to Canadians aged 65 and older. It’s designed to provide a baseline income in retirement, regardless of your employment history. While the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) depends on your work and contributions, OAS is based primarily on age and residency.
In many cases, seniors are automatically enrolled without needing to apply. If you qualify, Service Canada notifies you around your 64th birthday. Payments typically begin the month after you turn 65 — unless you choose to delay for a higher benefit later on.
Who Is Eligible for OAS?
You may qualify for OAS if:
- You are 65 or older.
- Your 2024 net world income is under:
- $148,541 if you’re aged 65 to 74
- $154,196 if you’re 75 or older
- You are a Canadian citizen or legal resident when your application is approved.
- You have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18.
Living Abroad? You May Still Qualify
Even if you’re outside Canada, you may be eligible for OAS if you lived in the country for 20 years or more after turning 18 and were a legal resident or citizen before leaving.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and Allowance Benefits
What Is the GIS?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a monthly top-up to the OAS benefit for low-income seniors living in Canada. Eligibility depends on income and marital status, not employment.
GIS Income Limits for July 2025:
- Single, widowed, or divorced: under $22,272
- Living with a spouse/partner who gets OAS: combined income under $29,424
- Partner receives the Allowance: under $41,184
- Partner doesn’t receive OAS or the Allowance: under $53,376
What Is the Allowance?
The Allowance is for low-income individuals aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or partner receives GIS. You must:
- Be a Canadian resident or citizen
- Have lived in Canada for 10+ years after age 18
- Have a household income under $41,184
Allowance for the Survivor
This benefit helps those aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or partner has died. To qualify:
- Your income must be under $29,976
- You must not be remarried or in a new common-law relationship
How to Apply for OAS, GIS, or the Allowance
Automatic Enrollment for OAS and GIS
Most people are automatically enrolled in OAS and GIS. If you’re eligible, Service Canada will send you a letter by age 64.
You can choose to start receiving payments as soon as you turn 65 or delay them up to age 70 — with a higher monthly payment the longer you wait.
Applying for the Allowance or Survivor Allowance
These programs require an application. You can apply:
- Online: Via your My Service Canada Account (note: progress cannot be saved).
- By mail or in person: Submit the completed application with required documents.
July to September 2025 Payment Amounts
Monthly payments have increased as of July 2025, based on a 1.0% inflation adjustment.
Maximum Monthly Amounts:
- OAS Pension:
- Ages 65–74: $734.95
- Ages 75+: $808.45
- GIS:
- Single or no partner receiving benefits: $1,097.75
- With spouse/partner receiving OAS or Allowance: $660.78
- Allowance: Up to $1,395.73
- Allowance for the Survivor: Up to $1,663.81
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Are OAS Payments Taxable?
Yes — your Old Age Security payments are taxable income. By default, no tax is withheld. That means:
- You may owe taxes when filing your return.
- You can choose to have tax deducted monthly via your My Service Canada Account.
- You’ll receive a T4A(OAS) form for taxes each year (or NR4 if you live abroad).
OAS Payment Dates for 2025
Old Age Security deposits typically arrive in the last week of each month.
Remaining OAS Payment Dates for 2025:
- Tuesday, July 29
- Wednesday, August 27
- Thursday, September 25
- Wednesday, October 29
- Wednesday, November 26
- Monday, December 22
Final Thoughts
If you’re a Canadian senior, keeping track of OAS, GIS, and Allowance details can help you maximize your retirement income. With increased payments now in effect and the next deposit just days away, it’s a great time to review your eligibility and understand your entitlements under these federal programs.