If you’re turning 65 in 2025, you’re about to become eligible for Canada’s three major retirement income programs: the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and potentially the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
These programs form the foundation of Canada’s public pension system. But what you actually receive each month depends on several factors, including your work history, income, residency status, and whether you choose to take your benefits immediately at 65 or defer them for a higher payout.
Here’s a complete and accurate breakdown of CPP, OAS, and GIS benefits at age 65 in 2025, based on official rates from Canada.ca.
Table of Contents
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) at Age 65 – What You’ll Receive
The CPP retirement pension provides a monthly taxable benefit to Canadians who contributed during their working years. You’re eligible to apply for CPP as early as age 60 or delay up to age 70.
CPP Maximum Amounts at Age 65 (2025):
- Maximum monthly CPP payment (age 65): $1,433.00
- Average monthly CPP (as of 2025): ~$844.53
- Annual maximum CPP at 65: $17,196
Factors That Affect CPP Amounts:
- Number of years you contributed
- Your average annual earnings during working years
- Whether you took time off (e.g., for child-rearing)
- Your chosen start date (earlier reduces it, later increases it)
You must apply for CPP – it’s not automatic. Apply online through My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or by mailing a paper application.
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Old Age Security (OAS) at 65 – How Much You’ll Get
The Old Age Security pension is a monthly, taxable benefit for seniors aged 65 and older. It is funded by general government revenues, not by payroll deductions.
OAS Maximum Monthly Payment (July to September 2025):
- Ages 65 to 74: Up to $734.94/month
- Ages 75 and older: Up to $808.44/month
If you are turning 65 in 2025, you’ll begin at the lower OAS rate ($734.94), unless you defer it. You can defer OAS for up to 5 years, increasing your monthly benefit by 0.6% per month delayed (or 7.2% per year).
Eligibility for Full OAS:
- You must be 65 years old
- Must have lived in Canada for at least 40 years after age 18
- If you have fewer than 40 years in Canada, you’ll get a partial pension
You should apply for OAS 6 months before turning 65, unless you receive a letter from Service Canada confirming automatic enrollment.
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Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) – Extra Help for Low-Income Seniors
If your income is low, you may also qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). It is a non-taxable monthly benefit added to your OAS.
GIS Maximum Monthly Payments (July to September 2025):
- Single senior: Up to $1,097.47/month
- Spouse/common-law partner also receiving full OAS: Up to $660.78/month
- Spouse/common-law partner not receiving OAS or Allowance: Up to $1,097/month
To receive GIS:
- You must be receiving OAS
- Your annual individual income (excluding OAS) must be below ~$21,624 (for singles, 2025 estimate)
- You must file your taxes every year
GIS is income-tested and adjusted every July based on your tax return from the previous year. You do not need to apply separately if you’re already receiving OAS and file your taxes on time.
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Summary – What You’ll Get at 65 in 2025
Here’s what a Canadian turning 65 in 2025 could receive monthly from the government:
| Benefit | Maximum Monthly (2025) |
|---|---|
| CPP (retirement pension) | $1,433 |
| OAS | $734.95 |
| GIS (if eligible) | $1,097 |
| Total Potential (CPP + OAS + GIS) | $3,264.95 |
Important: Most seniors do not receive the maximum CPP because it requires 39+ years of maximum contributions. The average CPP payment is closer to $899.67/month.
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What You Need to Do Before Turning 65
- Apply for CPP through My Service Canada Account or a paper form
- Apply or confirm OAS enrollment 6 months before your 65th birthday
- File your 2024 tax return to qualify for GIS and other income-tested benefits
- Consider deferring CPP or OAS to receive higher monthly amounts later
Other Programs to Explore at 65
- Provincial and Territorial Supplements (e.g., Ontario GAINS)
- Federal Non-Taxable Benefits (e.g., GST/HST credit)
- Veterans’ benefits (if applicable)
- Provincial Drug and Dental Plans for seniors
Final Thoughts
Turning 65 in 2025 opens the door to significant monthly retirement income from CPP, OAS, and GIS. While the maximum combined monthly payout could exceed $3,200, your actual amount will depend on your contributions, residency, income, and timing of application.
Start preparing early, file your taxes on time, and use your My Service Canada Account to track your eligibility and applications.