$978 OAS Benefits Per Month for Seniors in 2025 – If you’re a Canadian senior or planning for retirement, you’re probably wondering about OAS benefits in 2025. The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is one of Canada’s core government programs for people aged 65 and older. For 2025, eligible seniors could receive up to $978 per month when combining OAS with additional supplements. Here’s what you need to know about claiming this amount, the eligibility criteria, and how to maximize your benefits.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything—from the latest OAS payment rates to how to apply, and even tips for getting more out of the program. Whether you’re approaching retirement or helping a loved one prepare, this guide will ensure you’re fully informed.
$978 OAS Benefits Per Month for Seniors in 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly OAS Benefit (75+) | Up to $800.44 (as of Q1 2025) |
| Monthly GIS (single senior) | Up to $1,086.88 |
| Total Possible Monthly Benefit | Up to $1,887.32 for low-income seniors aged 75+ |
| Eligibility Age | 65 years and older |
| Payment Frequency | Monthly (third-to-last business day) |
| How to Apply | Online via My Service Canada or mail in form |
| Taxable | Yes (subject to income recovery tax if annual net income > $86,912) |
| Quarterly Adjustment | Yes, based on CPI |
Getting up to $978 per month in OAS benefits in 2025 can significantly ease financial stress in retirement. By understanding your eligibility, applying correctly, and exploring options like GIS or deferral, you can make the most of Canada’s senior support programs. Also, check out the Allowance programs if you’re under 65 but in a low-income household.
Understanding the $978 OAS Monthly Benefit in 2025
The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a monthly government payment available to most Canadians 65 and older. The base OAS benefit in Q1 2025 is:
- $727.67/month for seniors aged 65 to 74
- $800.44/month for seniors aged 75 and older
These payments are adjusted every quarter to reflect increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), helping retirees keep up with inflation.
However, many seniors receive more than just the base OAS. If you qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) — designed for low-income seniors — you could receive up to an additional $1,086.88/month. This brings the total monthly benefit close to $1,887.32.
⚠️ Note: The maximum $978 refers to seniors not receiving GIS but aged 75+ receiving OAS and possibly an allowance.
Who Is Eligible for OAS in 2025?
To receive OAS benefits, you must meet these basic requirements:
Age
You must be 65 years or older.
Legal Status
You must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident at the time your application is approved.
Residency
You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. To receive the full benefit, you must have lived in Canada for 40 years after age 18.
Income Level (For GIS)
For the GIS portion, your income must be below a certain threshold. For single seniors, it’s generally around $21,624 annually (subject to change).
How to Apply for OAS?
You may be automatically enrolled in OAS and receive a letter from Service Canada around 6 months before your 65th birthday. But if you don’t receive this letter, you should apply manually.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply:
Option 1: Online
- Sign into your My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
- Go to “Apply for OAS/GIS”
- Fill in the required fields and submit
Option 2: By Mail
- Download the OAS Application Form
- Complete and mail it to the nearest Service Canada office
Processing Time: Usually 6 to 12 weeks
OAS Payment Dates in 2025
Payments are made on the third-to-last business day of each month. Here are the confirmed 2025 dates:
- January 29
- February 26
- March 27
- April 28
- May 28
- June 26
- July 29
- August 27
- September 25
- October 29
- November 26
- December 22
Payments are usually deposited directly into your bank account.
What Is the OAS Recovery Tax?
If your net annual income exceeds $86,912 in 2023 (adjusted yearly), your OAS payment may be clawed back via the OAS recovery tax.
Example:
If your income is $90,000, the excess is $3,088. You would repay 15% of this excess = $463.20.
To avoid this, consider deferring your OAS.
Should You Defer Your OAS?
You can delay your OAS up to age 70 to increase your monthly payment.
How much more?
- OAS increases by 0.6% per month deferred
- That’s 7.2% more per year, or 36% more if you defer for 5 years
Why consider deferral?
- If you’re still earning a high income
- If you expect to live well into your 80s or 90s
Use the OAS Estimator Tool to check your options.
Other Related Benefits to Know
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
If your income is low, you could qualify for GIS in addition to OAS. The amount varies depending on your marital status and income.
Allowance and Allowance for the Survivor
- Allowance: For spouses or common-law partners aged 60 to 64 of OAS recipients
- Allowance for the Survivor: For widowed individuals aged 60 to 64
These programs help bridge the gap until OAS eligibility kicks in.
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FAQs
1. Is OAS taxable income?
Yes, it is considered taxable and must be reported on your return.
2. Can I receive OAS outside Canada?
Yes, if you’ve lived in Canada for 20+ years after age 18, you can receive OAS while abroad.
3. Do I need to apply every year?
No. Once approved, payments continue automatically unless your situation changes.
4. Can both spouses get OAS and GIS?
Yes, each person is assessed individually.
5. Will OAS increase in 2025?
Yes, OAS is adjusted every quarter for inflation using CPI data.
6. Is there help available if I have trouble applying?
Yes. You can visit a Service Canada Centre or call 1-800-277-9914 for assistance.
