What is Old Age Security?

Old Age Security (OAS) is a monthly payment from the Canadian government for seniors aged 65 and older. It’s not like the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), which is based on contributions from your paycheque. OAS is funded through taxes and is based mainly on how long you’ve lived in Canada after turning 18. The goal is to give seniors a steady base income to help cover living costs, which is increasingly essential in a time of rising prices. Many people combine OAS with CPP, workplace pensions, and savings for a more comfortable and reliable retirement.

When do you get Old Age Security in Canada?

You can start receiving Old Age Security at age 65, or you can delay OAS payments up to age 70 for a larger monthly amount. Each month you delay boosts your payment, which can be beneficial if you expect to live longer or have other income sources early in retirement. To qualify, you need to be a Canadian citizen or legal resident when approved and have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18. If you’ve spent time in a country with a social security agreement with Canada, those years may also count. To avoid delays, apply a few months before your 65th birthday.

Do I Qualify?

To qualify for Old Age Security in Canada, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 65 years old
  • Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident at the time your application is approved
  • Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
  • If applying from outside Canada, have lived in Canada for at least 20 years after turning 18
  • Meet residency or contribution requirements under a social security agreement if you lived or worked in another country
    Meeting these requirements ensures you are eligible for either the full OAS pension or a partial OAS pension, depending on your years of residence.

How Much is Old Age Security in Canada?

The OAS amount you receive depends on your years of residence in Canada and whether your annual income exceeds the threshold for the OAS pension recovery tax. As of 2025, the maximum monthly Old Age Security payment for seniors aged 65 to 74 is slightly over $700, with a higher amount for those aged 75 and older. To receive the maximum payment, you must have lived in Canada for at least 40 years after turning 18. If you have fewer years, you may receive a partial pension. OAS payments are reviewed every three months and adjusted for inflation to keep pace with the cost of living.

How is Old Age Security calculated?

Old Age Security is based purely on residency, your work history and CPP contributions don’t matter. 40 years in Canada after age 18 gets you the full amount, fewer years mean less. But your income can reduce OAS through the “clawback.” In 2025, if your net world income is over $93,454, you’ll repay 15 cents of OAS for every dollar above that. At about $151,668 (ages 65–74) or $157,490 (age 75+), OAS may be fully clawed back. In addition, low-income seniors may qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which tops up monthly income.

Is Old Age Security the same as CPP?

No, CPP is based on how much you paid into it during your working years, while OAS is based on how long you’ve lived in Canada. Many retirees get both, giving them two steady income streams. You can get OAS even if you’ve never worked in Canada, and you can get CPP even if you don’t qualify for OAS.

How to Apply for Old Age Security in Canada?

Some people are enrolled automatically, but not everyone. You can apply online through your My Service Canada Account or by filling out a paper application form. It’s best to apply about six months before you want payments to start, which would be six months before your 65th birthday if you want them as soon as they’re available. You’ll need personal details, proof of legal status, and your Social Insurance Number. If you’ve lived outside Canada, you may also need information about your time abroad.

Links to Apply for Old Age Security

Apply for Old Age Security Online: Link Here

Old Age Security Printable Form to Apply In-Person or by Mail: Link Here

Conclusion

Old Age Security can be a critical piece of retirement income in Canada. It won’t replace your entire salary, but it’s a reliable base you can build on with CPP, savings, and/or other income. The key is knowing when to take it, how much you might get, and how to apply. If you’re close to 65, check your eligibility now and get your application in early so you can enjoy a smooth start to your OAS payments. 

To explore more benefits for Canadian seniors in need, check out our Guide to Senior Care Grant Options and review the federal and provincial programs designed to support seniors in maintaining their lifestyle and receiving healthcare services.