OAS (Old Age Security)

What Is Old Age Security (OAS)?

Old Age Security (OAS) is a monthly pension paid by the Government of Canada to most Canadians aged 65 and older. Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), you don’t need to have worked or contributed to receive OAS — it’s based on residency, not income or employment history.

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Who Is Eligible for OAS?

You may qualify for OAS if you:

• Are 65 years or older
  
  
• Are a Canadian citizen or legal resident
  
  
• Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18 (20+ years if living outside Canada)
  
  

You don’t need to have worked or contributed to OAS — it’s funded through general tax revenue, not payroll deductions.

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How Much Can You Get?

The OAS pension amount is reviewed every quarter and adjusted for inflation. As of 2025:

• The maximum monthly OAS payment is about $713 (at age 65)
  
  
• The amount may be higher if you defer payments (up to age 70)
  
  
• Payments are reduced if your income exceeds the OAS clawback threshold (around $90,000/year)
  
  

Your actual amount depends on how long you’ve lived in Canada after age 18.

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Additional OAS Benefits

1. Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)

• A monthly benefit for low-income OAS recipients
  
  
• Amount varies based on your income and marital status
  
  
• Not taxable
  
  

2. Allowance

• For low-income spouses/common-law partners of OAS pensioners aged 60 to 64
  
  

3. Allowance for the Survivor

• For low-income survivors aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or partner has died
  
  

How to Apply

• Some people are automatically enrolled, but others must apply
  
  
• Apply up to 11 months before turning 65
  
  
• You can defer OAS for up to 5 years to receive a higher monthly amount
  
  

Apply online via your My Service Canada Account or by mailing a paper application.

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Key Takeaways

• OAS provides monthly retirement income to Canadians 65+ based on residency
  
  
• It is separate from CPP and not based on work history or contributions
  
  
• Low-income seniors may qualify for GIS and other supplements
  
  
• You can defer OAS to receive larger payments later

Common Questions

Q: Is OAS taxable?
A: Yes, OAS payments are considered taxable income.

Q: Can OAS be reduced or clawed back?
A: Yes. If your income is above the threshold, your OAS payments will be reduced or partially clawed back through the OAS Recovery Tax.

Q: Can I get OAS if I live outside Canada?
A: Possibly. You must have lived in Canada for at least 20 years after age 18 to receive OAS abroad.

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