Canadian seniors who qualify for partial Old Age Security (OAS) can expect to receive approximately $2,455 in annual benefits in 2025, depending on their years of residency in Canada. This guide outlines the eligibility requirements, payment schedule, calculation methods, and how to ensure you receive your OAS payments without delay.
Overview of 2025 OAS Payment – Key Details at a Glance
Key Information | Details |
---|---|
Program Name | Old Age Security (OAS) |
Monthly Max (Ages 65–74) | $727.67 CAD |
Monthly Max (Ages 75+) | $800.44 CAD |
Example Annual Partial Amount | $2,455 CAD (based on 10 years of residency) |
Payment Schedule | Monthly |
Next OAS Payment Date | April 28, 2025 |
Full 2025 Payment Dates | Listed below |
Eligibility | Age 65+, 10+ years Canadian residency after age 18 |
Official Website | Canada.ca – OAS |
What is the Old Age Security (OAS) Program?
OAS is a monthly benefit funded by the Government of Canada and paid to eligible seniors aged 65 and above. Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), OAS eligibility does not depend on work history or income earned during employment. Instead, it’s based on age, legal status in Canada, and how long you’ve lived in the country after turning 18.
This pension is designed to provide basic income support during retirement. Even seniors who have not worked in Canada can qualify, as long as residency conditions are met.
Why Does the $2,455 Payment Matter?
The figure of $2,455 represents an estimated partial OAS pension. Under the rules, a person who has lived in Canada for 10 years after age 18 is eligible for 25% of the full OAS amount.
Let’s break down this calculation:
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Monthly full OAS (age 65–74): $727.67
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25% of monthly amount: $727.67 × 25% = $181.91
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Annual total: $181.91 × 12 months = $2,182.92
Due to slight benefit adjustments based on inflation and indexing, many recipients may receive closer to $2,455 annually in 2025 if receiving a partial pension.
OAS Payment Dates for 2025
Here is the official OAS payment calendar for 2025. All payments are typically issued via direct deposit or mailed cheque on these dates:
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January 29, 2025
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February 26, 2025
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March 27, 2025
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April 28, 2025
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May 28, 2025
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June 26, 2025
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July 29, 2025
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August 27, 2025
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September 25, 2025
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October 29, 2025
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November 26, 2025
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December 22, 2025
Setting up direct deposit is the best way to ensure timely receipt.
Eligibility Requirements for OAS in 2025
To qualify for any level of OAS, seniors must meet all the following conditions:
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Age: Must be 65 or older
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Status: Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident at the time of application approval
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Residency: Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18 to receive partial OAS. To receive full OAS, 40 years of residency is required.
If you’ve lived in Canada for less than 10 years, you may still qualify under international social security agreements if your country has one with Canada.
Applying for OAS: Steps for 2025
Some seniors are auto-enrolled, but if you’re not, you’ll need to apply:
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Check your My Service Canada Account (MSCA) notifications.
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If you haven’t been auto-enrolled, download the OAS application form (ISP-3000).
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Submit the completed form online via MSCA or mail it to Service Canada.
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Applications typically take 6 to 12 weeks to process. It’s recommended to apply six months before your 65th birthday.
How OAS Payments Are Calculated
OAS is calculated based on your years of residency in Canada after turning 18, up to a maximum of 40 years. Here’s an example:
Case Example:
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Maria is 65 in 2025.
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She has lived in Canada for 15 years after age 18.
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Calculation: 15 ÷ 40 = 37.5%
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Monthly benefit: $727.67 × 37.5% = $272.88
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Annual benefit: $272.88 × 12 = $3,274.56
Setting Up Direct Deposit for OAS
To avoid delays or missing payments, set up direct deposit:
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Log in to your My Service Canada Account.
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Go to Direct Deposit settings.
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Input your bank account number, transit number, and institution number.
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Review and confirm your changes.
You’ll begin receiving OAS payments directly into your bank account on scheduled dates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I receive OAS if I live outside Canada?
Yes, if you meet the minimum 20-year residency rule or if your country has a social security agreement with Canada.
Q2: Will the OAS amount change in 2025?
Yes, OAS amounts are adjusted quarterly based on inflation. The figures used here are current as of April 2025.
Q3: Can I get both CPP and OAS?
Yes. CPP is based on your work contributions, while OAS is based on age and residency. You can receive both.
Q4: What happens if I delay my OAS application?
You can defer your OAS for up to 60 months and receive a higher monthly amount later as a result.
Q5: What is the GIS and how does it relate to OAS?
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a non-taxable benefit for low-income seniors who already receive OAS. It boosts monthly income and is calculated based on your household earnings.
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