For millions of Canadians aged 65 and older, the Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a vital source of income in retirement. Whether you rely on it for essential expenses or use it to supplement your Canada Pension Plan (CPP), staying informed about OAS increases in 2025 is crucial.
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In this guide, we cover everything seniors need to know about the OAS payment dates, benefit amounts, inflation-related increases, and how to qualify—plus tips on how to maximize your monthly payments.
OAS Payment Dates for 2025: Plan Your Monthly Budget
The Government of Canada issues OAS payments on a monthly basis, typically around the third or fourth week of each month. Here are the official 2025 OAS payment dates:
- January 29, 2025
- February 26, 2025
- March 27, 2025
- April 28, 2025
- May 28, 2025
- June 26, 2025
- July 29, 2025
- August 27, 2025
- September 25, 2025
- October 29, 2025
- November 26, 2025
- December 22, 2025
Payments are made via direct deposit or mailed cheque. Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure method—funds typically appear in your account on the exact date. Mailed cheques may take a few additional days to arrive.
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How Much Is the OAS Cheque in 2025? OAS Increase Explained
OAS benefits are reviewed quarterly (January, April, July, October) and adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This ensures that payments keep up with inflation and reflect the true cost of living.
OAS Monthly Payment Amounts (January – March 2025)
| Age Group | Maximum Monthly OAS | Income Threshold (2023 Net Income) |
|---|---|---|
| 65 to 74 years | $727.67 | Less than $142,609 |
| 75 years and older | $800.44 | Less than $148,179 |
These amounts are expected to increase again in April, July, and October 2025, depending on inflation trends.
What’s Behind the OAS Increase in 2025?
The OAS increase in 2025 is driven by rising inflation, which impacts seniors’ ability to afford essentials such as:
- Groceries
- Utilities
- Prescription medications
- Housing costs
As inflation rates remain elevated, quarterly increases to OAS will continue, helping retirees maintain purchasing power.
Seniors aged 75 and older receive a permanent 10% boost to their OAS payments, introduced by the government in July 2022. That increase is still in effect in 2025.
Who is Eligible for OAS in 2025?
The OAS pension is non-contributory, meaning you do not have to pay into it during your working years to qualify. However, you must meet certain residency and age criteria.
Eligibility Requirements (Living in Canada):
- Be 65 years or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
Eligibility Requirements (Living Outside Canada):
- Be 65 years or older
- Have lived in Canada for at least 20 years after age 18
- OR worked abroad for a Canadian employer (military, banking, public service)
Note: If you leave Canada for more than 6 months and don’t meet the 20-year requirement, your OAS payments may stop.
Additional OAS-Related Benefits in 2025
Many seniors also qualify for additional income-tested benefits tied to their OAS status. These include:
1. Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Available to low-income seniors receiving OAS
- Non-taxable
- Paid monthly in addition to OAS
- Income must fall below the GIS threshold
2. Allowance (Spouse/Partner Age 60–64)
- For those aged 60–64 with a partner who receives GIS
- Must meet residency and income criteria
3. Allowance for the Survivor
- For widowed individuals aged 60–64
- Income-tested and non-taxable
Important: GIS and Allowance benefits are suspended if you are outside Canada for more than 6 consecutive months.
Delaying OAS for Higher Payments: Is It Worth It?
You can defer OAS payments up to age 70. For every month you delay, your OAS increases by 0.6%, or 7.2% annually. Delaying until age 70 can raise your benefit by up to 36%.
Example:
- OAS at 65: $727.67/month
- OAS at 70 (estimated): ~$990/month
This strategy is ideal for those with other sources of income in their early retirement years and who expect to live well into their 80s or 90s.
Can You Receive OAS Abroad in 2025?
Yes—you can receive OAS while living in another country, but only if:
- You’ve lived in Canada for at least 20 years after age 18, or
- You’re in a country with a social security agreement with Canada
OAS payments are sent via international direct deposit, where available.
Final Takeaways: OAS Increase 2025 and What to Expect
- OAS payments will increase in 2025 based on quarterly inflation adjustments.
- Seniors aged 75+ receive higher benefits than those aged 65–74.
- Monthly payment dates for 2025 are already confirmed, helping with financial planning.
- Additional benefits like GIS and Allowance are available for low-income seniors.
- Consider delaying OAS for a larger monthly payout later in life.
- Check your eligibility and payment status via your My Service Canada Account.
Need Personalized Retirement Advice?
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) can help you:
- Maximize your OAS and CPP
- Plan your withdrawals tax-efficiently
- Create a secure long-term financial strategy
Stay informed, plan ahead, and make the most of your OAS in 2025.
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