The Canadian government provides several programs to support seniors, with eligibility depending on various factors like residency, age, income, and contribution history. The main payments are the Old Age Security (OAS) pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP).
Old Age Security (OAS) Eligibility 2025
The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a taxable monthly payment for Canadians aged 65 and older, funded through general tax revenues. Eligibility is not based on employment history or work contributions.
Residency requirements
Your eligibility and pension amount depend on your residency in Canada after age 18. If you live in Canada, you must be a citizen or legal resident when approved and have resided in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. If you live outside Canada, you needed to be a citizen or legal resident the day before leaving and have resided in Canada for at least 20 years after turning 18.
Income thresholds and the 'clawback'
The OAS is subject to a recovery tax for high-income earners. For the 2025 income year, impacting payments from July 2026 to June 2027, if you are 65-74, your pension may be fully repaid if your net world income exceeds $151,668. For those 75 and over, the full repayment threshold is $157,490. The recovery starts at an income of $93,454 for both age groups.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) Eligibility 2025
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a non-taxable monthly payment for low-income seniors who receive the OAS pension.
To be eligible for GIS, you must:
- Be 65 or older.
- Live in Canada.
- Receive the OAS pension.
- Have an annual income below the specific threshold for your marital status.
Income thresholds for GIS (July–September 2025):
- Single, widowed, or divorced: Annual income must be less than $22,272.
- Couple (spouse receives full OAS): Combined annual income must be less than $29,424.
- Couple (spouse receives the Allowance): Combined annual income must be less than $41,184.
- Couple (spouse does not receive OAS or Allowance): Combined annual income must be less than $53,376.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Eligibility 2025
Unlike OAS and GIS, the CPP is an earned benefit based on contributions made during your working years. The Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) is a similar program for those who worked in Quebec.
To be eligible for CPP retirement benefits, you must:
- Be at least 60 years old.
- Have made at least one valid contribution to the CPP.
Key factors for your CPP amount:
- Contribution history: The amount is based on your total contributions.
- Start date: You can start collecting as early as age 60 with a reduced amount, or delay until age 70 for a higher monthly payment.
Special One-Time $2,200 Cost-of-Living Relief Payment (2025)
In 2025, the federal government is offering a one-time, tax-free $2,200 payment to provide financial relief to vulnerable Canadians. Eligibility is for seniors aged 65 or older meeting income and residency requirements, individuals receiving CPP-Disability benefits, and low-income individuals and families within specific income limits. Eligible recipients of OAS, GIS, or CPP-D will receive this automatically on October 29, 2025. The application deadline for those not automatically receiving it is September 30, 2025.
Comparison of Major Senior Payments (2025)
| Feature | Old Age Security (OAS) | Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Canada Pension Plan (CPP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Payment Type | Taxable monthly pension | Non-taxable monthly supplement | Taxable monthly pension |
| Funding Source | Federal government general revenues | Federal government general revenues | Worker and employer contributions |
| Primary Eligibility | Age (65+) and residency | Low-income OAS recipients | Based on work contributions |
| Maximum Monthly (Jul-Sep 2025) | ~$734.95 (65–74); ~$808.45 (75+) | Up to $1,097.75 (depending on status) | Max at age 65 is ~$1,433.00 |
| Income Test | Yes (Clawback for high earners) | Yes (Required for eligibility) | No (but start age affects amount) |
Provincial Senior Benefits
Several provinces and territories also offer their own benefits to supplement federal payments, such as the Newfoundland and Labrador Seniors' Benefit and adjustments to the Ontario Sales Tax Credit for seniors. It's recommended to check your specific province's government website for local program details.
The Application Process
Many seniors are automatically enrolled for OAS and GIS and will receive a notification letter the month after turning 64. If not automatically enrolled, you can apply through your My Service Canada Account online or by mailing a paper application.
The Impact of Deferral
Deferring your OAS pension for up to five years after age 65 can result in a higher monthly payment. The payment increases by 0.6% for each month deferred, up to a maximum of 36% at age 70. This can be advantageous if you are still working or have other income sources.
Conclusion
Eligibility for Canadian senior payments in 2025 depends on a combination of factors, including age, residency, income, and work history. The three core federal programs—OAS, GIS, and CPP—each have distinct criteria. Understanding these requirements is essential for maximizing your retirement income. While OAS is a universal pension based on residency, GIS offers a non-taxable supplement for low-income seniors. CPP is an earnings-based benefit based on your lifetime contributions. For personalized advice, seniors can consult with Service Canada or a financial advisor. For more information, visit the official Government of Canada website.
