Great news for seniors in Canada! Some retirees may be eligible for up to $2,988 per month in financial support through the Old Age Security (OAS) program and other government benefits. While the standard OAS payment is much lower, certain individuals who qualify for additional supplements like the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) can significantly boost their monthly income.
How Can You Get the Full $2,988?
The base OAS pension, as of early 2025, pays:
- $727.67 per month for those aged 65 to 74
- $800.44 per month for those aged 75 and older
These amounts increase every three months based on inflation, ensuring seniors keep up with rising living costs.
However, many low-income seniors also qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which provides an extra $1,086.88 per month for those who meet the income criteria. If eligible, combining OAS and GIS could bring a senior’s total monthly payment to nearly $1,887.
Additionally, some seniors may qualify for the Allowance for the Survivor, designed to help low-income widowed individuals aged 60 to 64. If you meet the eligibility requirements, this can further increase your monthly payments.
By combining OAS, GIS, and survivor benefits, some seniors can reach or exceed $2,988 per month!
Who Qualifies for These Payments?
To receive OAS, you must:
- Be 65 or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
For the GIS supplement, your eligibility depends on your income. The lower your income, the more GIS you receive. The government updates income thresholds each year, so it’s important to check if you qualify.
When Will Seniors Get Paid in 2025?
OAS payments are issued monthly, usually on the third-to-last business day. Here’s the 2025 OAS payment schedule:
- January 29
- February 26
- March 27
- April 28
- May 28
- June 26
- July 29
- August 27
- September 25
- October 29
- November 26
- December 22
How to Apply
Some seniors are automatically enrolled in OAS, but not everyone. If you haven’t received a letter from the government confirming your enrollment, you’ll need to apply.
You can apply online through your My Service Canada Account or submit a paper application by mail.
Final Thoughts – Don’t Miss Out!
Many seniors don’t realize they qualify for extra benefits. If you’re 65 or older and have a low income, you could be missing out on hundreds or even thousands of dollars every month.
Check your eligibility and apply today – a few minutes of effort could mean a big boost to your monthly income!
