OAS Payment: The Old Age Security (OAS) program is one of the most important financial supports for seniors in Canada. Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), which depends on how much you contributed during your working years, OAS is paid from general tax money.
That means all eligible seniors receive this monthly payment, even if they never worked in Canada.
In 2025, the Canadian government confirmed an increase in OAS payments to help seniors manage the rising cost of living. With higher grocery prices, housing costs, and medical expenses, this change brings relief to millions of retirees.
Let’s break down the new OAS payment rates, dates, eligibility rules, and clawback thresholds in a way that’s easy to understand.
OAS Payment Dates in 2025
The OAS benefit is sent monthly, usually on the same day as CPP. Direct deposit is the fastest and safest way to get payments, while mailed cheques may take longer.
Here are the remaining OAS payment dates for 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| September | September 25, 2025 |
| October | October 29, 2025 |
| November | November 26, 2025 |
| December | December 22, 2025 |
New OAS Payment Rates (July – September 2025)
OAS payments are adjusted every three months based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to keep up with inflation. The July–September 2025 amounts are:
| Age Group | Monthly OAS Amount |
|---|---|
| 65–74 years | $734.95 |
| 75+ years | $808.44 |
This increase is designed to provide more stability for seniors who rely on fixed incomes during times of rising costs.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
For seniors with low income, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) offers extra monthly money on top of OAS. GIS is income-tested, meaning the amount you get depends on how much other income you have. Like OAS, GIS is also adjusted quarterly to keep up with inflation.
Together, OAS and GIS act as a lifeline for vulnerable seniors by helping cover essential expenses such as rent, food, and healthcare.
OAS Eligibility in 2025
To qualify for OAS, seniors must meet certain rules:
- Must be 65 years or older
- Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident at the time of approval
- Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18 (40 years required for full pension)
- If living outside Canada, you must have 20 years of residency in Canada after age 18
These rules ensure that OAS benefits are directed to those who have a strong connection to Canada.
OAS Clawback: Recovery Tax
High-income seniors may have part of their OAS reduced through the clawback rule, also known as the OAS recovery tax.
For the July 2025 – June 2026 benefit year:
- OAS begins to be reduced when net income is over $93,454
- OAS is fully clawed back at $151,775 for ages 65–74
- Seniors 75 and older have a slightly higher clawback ceiling since their benefit is larger
This ensures that support is focused on seniors who need it most.
Key Takeaways
- OAS payments increased in July 2025 and will be reviewed again in October 2025.
- Seniors 75+ years old receive higher payments than those aged 65–74.
- The next OAS payment dates are September 25, October 29, November 26, and December 22, 2025.
- Eligibility depends on age, residency, and income.
- Seniors earning above $93,454 should expect clawback reductions.
The OAS payment increase in 2025 is a crucial support system for Canadian seniors facing rising living costs.
By adjusting payments quarterly, offering higher benefits for those over 75, and combining with GIS for low-income seniors, the program ensures that retirees can manage essential expenses with greater security.
While high-income earners may face clawbacks, OAS remains a cornerstone of financial stability for millions of seniors across Canada.
FAQs
What is the maximum OAS payment in 2025?
For July–September 2025, the maximum OAS is $734.95 for ages 65–74 and $808.44 for seniors 75 and older.
When are the next OAS payments coming?
The upcoming dates are September 25, October 29, November 26, and December 22, 2025.
Do I need to apply for OAS?
Most people are automatically enrolled, but some may need to apply. If you do not receive a notice from Service Canada, you should submit an application.