Canadian seniors could receive up to $1,700 this June through a combination of Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) benefits. That number could be even higher for some, depending on their contributions and age. If you’re nearing retirement or already receiving these payments, knowing the ins and outs of both programs can help you get the most out of your retirement income.
Benefits
The $1,700 figure comes from combining maximum OAS and average CPP payments. In June 2025:
Benefit Type | Monthly Maximum (June 2025) |
---|---|
CPP | Up to $1,433.00 |
OAS (Age 65–74) | Up to $727.67 |
OAS (Age 75+) | Up to $800.44 |
Combined Total | Up to $2,233.44 |
Of course, not everyone qualifies for the maximum. Your CPP is based on how much and how long you’ve contributed, while OAS is linked to your age and years of residency in Canada.
Programs
The Canada Pension Plan is a monthly taxable benefit that replaces part of your income in retirement. To qualify, you need to have contributed at least once during your working years. The amount you get depends on your total contributions and the age you begin taking it. Those who wait until age 65 and contributed at the max are eligible for the full $1,433 monthly benefit.
What is OAS?
Old Age Security is funded through taxes and not linked to employment. It’s available to seniors aged 65 and over who meet the residency requirement—10 years in Canada after age 18. People aged 75 and over receive a slightly higher amount, which is currently $800.44 per month.
Eligibility
- Must be 60 years or older
- Must have made valid CPP contributions
- Amount depends on years and level of contributions
OAS Eligibility
- Must be at least 65 years old
- Must have lived in Canada for 10+ years
- Must be under $90,997 in income to avoid clawback
If your income exceeds that clawback limit, your OAS will be reduced by 15% of the extra income.
History
OAS started back in 1952 as a universal pension. CPP followed in 1966 because OAS wasn’t enough to support seniors alone. Since then, both have been updated to account for inflation and demographic changes. Recently, CPP enhancements were added to boost future benefits.
Inflation
CPP and OAS are adjusted annually with inflation, so your payments should increase over time. But with Canada’s rising cost of living, that adjustment doesn’t always keep up. Many retirees rely on extra help like the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) or personal savings to stay afloat.
Tips
If you’re aiming for the maximum possible retirement income, here’s how to boost your payments:
- Delay CPP to age 70: This can increase your benefit by up to 42%.
- Max out your contributions: The more you contribute, the more you’ll receive.
- Apply early: Apply at least six months before you want payments to start.
- Explore spousal options: Pension sharing or survivor benefits could increase your total household income.
Taxes
Both CPP and OAS count as taxable income. If your total annual income is too high, it could push you into a higher tax bracket or trigger OAS clawbacks.
Strategies like income splitting with your spouse or contributing to an RRSP until age 71 can help reduce your taxable income and preserve more of your OAS.
Example
Take Anne, for instance. She’s 66, retired, and contributed the maximum to CPP for 40 years. She now gets $1,433 from CPP and $727.67 from OAS. Her annual income is about $25,000, so there’s no clawback, and she might even qualify for GIS. That’s smart retirement planning in action.
Mistakes
Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Applying late and missing months of income
- Starting CPP too early without a real need
- Forgetting to update your address or banking details
- Overlooking how taxes will reduce your net income
By planning ahead, staying informed, and using the right tools, you can get the most out of CPP and OAS.
FAQs
What’s the max CPP payment in June 2025?
Up to $1,433.00 monthly for those with full contributions.
How much OAS will I get at 75?
Up to $800.44 per month if eligible.
What’s the CPP and OAS payment date?
The next payment is scheduled for June 28, 2025.
Can I get both CPP and OAS?
Yes, most seniors receive both if they meet eligibility rules.
Is CPP and OAS income taxable?
Yes, both are considered taxable income in Canada.