In 2025, eligible Canadian seniors could receive up to $3,716 per month by combining benefits from Old Age Security (OAS), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
While there is no single $3,716 pension, this total reflects the maximum payout across these three key programs for qualified recipients.
Here’s a full breakdown of the benefits, who qualifies, and when payments are scheduled.
What Is Canada’s $3,716 Pension in 2025?
The $3,716 figure represents the combined maximum monthly income from:
| Program | Maximum Monthly Amount (2025) |
|---|---|
| Old Age Security (OAS) | $727.67 (65–74) / $800.44 (75+) |
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | Up to $1,364.60 |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Up to $1,086.88 |
| Total Possible Monthly Payment | Up to $3,716 |
Each benefit is separate and has its own eligibility criteria, which we’ll now break down.
Old Age Security (OAS)
OAS is a universal pension for Canadians aged 65 and older who have lived in the country for at least 10 years after turning 18.
- Monthly payment (65–74): $727.67
- Monthly payment (75+): $800.44 (includes 10% bonus)
- Clawback threshold: Begins at $86,912 annual income
- Delayed retirement option: Deferring up to age 70 can increase OAS by 7.2% per year
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
CPP is based on contributions made during your working years. The more you contribute, the higher your payout.
- Average monthly CPP (2025): $811.21
- Maximum monthly CPP: $1,364.60
- Start as early as age 60 (with reduced payments)
- Delay to age 70 for a 42% increase in benefit
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
GIS is a tax-free benefit available to low-income seniors who already receive OAS.
- Max monthly GIS for singles: $1,086.88
- Gradually reduced as income rises
- Non-taxable
- Must file annual tax returns to stay eligible
How to Apply for OAS, CPP, and GIS
Applying for your retirement income benefits is easy:
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Check Eligibility:
- Age: Must be at least 65
- Residency: 10+ years in Canada (for OAS/GIS)
- Work history: Relevant for CPP
- Income level: Determines GIS qualification
- Gather Documents:
- SIN
- Tax returns
- Bank account info
- Apply Online or By Mail:
- Use your My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
- Or download and submit paper forms
- Track Your Application:
- Processing time: 6–8 weeks
- Check MSCA or call Service Canada
2025 Pension Payment Dates
Payments are made on the last 3 business days of each month. Here’s the full 2025 schedule:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | Jan 29 |
| February | Feb 26 |
| March | Mar 27 |
| April | Apr 28 |
| May | May 28 |
| June | Jun 26 |
| July | Jul 29 |
| August | Aug 27 |
| September | Sep 25 |
| October | Oct 29 |
| November | Nov 26 |
| December | Dec 22 (early) |
Tip: Set up direct deposit via MSCA to get paid faster and more securely.
Tips to Maximize Your Pension Income
Maximizing your monthly pension can be done through smart planning:
- Delay CPP and OAS for higher payments
- File taxes annually to keep GIS
- Keep income under $86,912 to avoid OAS clawback
- Use government calculators to estimate your future payments
- Regularly review and update your My Service Canada Account
While there’s no single $3,716 pension benefit, Canadian seniors in 2025 can reach this amount through a combination of OAS, CPP, and GIS—if they qualify for the maximum of each.
These programs are vital pillars of Canada’s retirement income system, and understanding how they work can help you make the most of your senior years.
If you’re turning 65 soon or already retired, now is the time to review your eligibility, apply, and optimize your pension strategy.
FAQs
What is the maximum monthly pension a Canadian senior can receive in 2025?
Up to $3,716, combining OAS, CPP, and GIS at their maximum levels.
Is GIS taxable?
No, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is non-taxable.
Can I delay OAS and CPP?
Yes. Delaying increases your monthly benefit—OAS by 0.6% monthly, CPP by 0.7% monthly, up to age 70.