If you’re already retired or planning to step into retirement soon, there’s some encouraging news for Canadian seniors. In 2025, both the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) have increased, giving retirees a stronger monthly income to help navigate today’s rising costs.
Right now, you could get up to $1,433 a month from CPP and up to $800.44 from OAS if you’re 75 or older. That’s a potential total of $2,233.44 per month—or $26,801.28 per year—just from federal retirement programs. Not bad, right?
Let’s walk through what’s changed, how to qualify, and how you can maximize your benefits.
Overview
Here’s a quick look at Canada’s 2025 pension numbers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Max CPP Monthly Benefit | $1,433.00 |
| Average CPP Payment | $808.14 |
| Max OAS (age 75+) | $800.44 |
| Combined CPP + OAS Max | $2,233.44/month |
| CPP Start Age | 60 to 70 |
| OAS Start Age | 65+ |
| CPP Increase (2025) | ~2.6% (inflation-linked) |
| OAS Adjustment | Quarterly via CPI |
| Next Payment Date | May 28, 2025 |
CPP
The Canada Pension Plan is funded by contributions from your work income over your career. The more you contribute and the longer you work, the more you’ll receive.
In 2025:
- Maximum monthly CPP at 65: $1,433
- Average monthly payment: $808.14
Things that impact your CPP:
- Your income history
- How long you worked and contributed
- When you start receiving it
If you start CPP at 60, you’ll get less. Delay it to 70, and you could get over 40% more.
Example:
Start at 65: $1,000/month
Delay to 70: $1,420/month
Waiting 5 years = $5,000+ more per year.
OAS
Old Age Security doesn’t depend on how much you worked. It’s based on age and how long you’ve lived in Canada.
In 2025, monthly OAS rates are:
- Age 65–74: $727.67
- Age 75+: $800.44
OAS is reviewed every quarter and adjusted based on inflation.
To qualify:
- Must be 65+
- Must have lived in Canada at least 10 years after age 18
- 40 years of residency = full benefit
Even if you live abroad, you might still qualify based on agreements with other countries.
Dates
Here are the upcoming CPP and OAS payment dates for 2025:
- May 28
- June 26
- July 29
- August 27
- September 25
- October 29
- November 26
- December 22
Use your My Service Canada Account to check dates or update your banking info for direct deposit.
Eligibility
- Must be 60 or older
- Must have contributed at least once
OAS:
- Must be 65 or older
- Must have 10+ years of Canadian residency
- 40 years = full benefit
If you lived or worked abroad, check international agreements to see if time spent overseas counts.
Combined Benefits
Seniors 75+ can get up to $2,233.44 a month. While most people receive less, even partial benefits can build a solid retirement base.
Example:
Helen is 70. She worked 30 years and raised a family.
- CPP: $970/month
- OAS: $800.44/month
- Total: $1,770.44/month
She also gets a bit of GIS to help with living costs.
Tips
Delay CPP or OAS:
- CPP grows 0.7% for each month delayed after 65 (up to 42%)
- OAS grows 0.6% per month if delayed (up to 36%)
Check Your CPP Record:
Log in to your My Service Canada Account to see your history. Spot an error? Fix it fast.
Apply for GIS:
If your income is low and you receive OAS, the Guaranteed Income Supplement could add up to $1,065 monthly for single seniors in 2025.
Pension Sharing:
Lower your household tax bill by sharing CPP with your spouse—same income, less tax.
Avoid OAS Clawback:
OAS starts being clawed back if your income exceeds $90,997 in 2025. To stay below that:
- Split pension income
- Withdraw from a TFSA instead of RRSP
- Talk to a tax advisor
Still Working?
If you collect CPP before 65, you must still contribute. These extra payments earn Post-Retirement Benefits (PRBs) that increase your future monthly CPP.
Between ages 65–70, CPP contributions are optional, but they can still grow your benefit. OAS, on the other hand, isn’t reduced by earned income—but high income can trigger recovery tax.
What Experts Say
Clara Lee, Certified Financial Planner:
“CPP and OAS form the foundation of your retirement—but they’re not enough on their own. RRSPs, TFSAs, and GIS complete the picture.”
James Murray, CPA & Retirement Planner:
“Delaying your benefits can pay off. Don’t rush to take them just because you can—run the numbers and think long term.”
Planning your retirement means knowing all your tools. With CPP and OAS getting a boost this year, now’s the perfect time to review your income strategy and make sure you’re on track for a secure future.
FAQs
When is the next CPP payment?
The next CPP payment is on May 28, 2025.
How much CPP can I get at 65?
The maximum is $1,433/month in 2025.
How is OAS adjusted?
It’s reviewed quarterly based on the Consumer Price Index.
Can I delay CPP past 65?
Yes, delaying to age 70 increases your benefit by up to 42%.
Who qualifies for the GIS?
Low-income seniors receiving OAS may qualify for GIS.
