In 2025, Canadian seniors could receive up to $3,716 per month from government pension programs. But this isn’t a single payment—it’s the combined maximum from Old Age Security (OAS), the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
To get this amount, you need to qualify for the highest payout in each program, which is rare. Let’s look into how these benefits work, who qualifies, and strategies to help you reach the maximum.
Pension Breakdown
The $3,716 total is the sum of the top payments from each program:
| Program | Max Monthly (2025) | Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| OAS | $727.67 (65–74) / $800.44 (75+) | Age 65+, 10+ years residency after age 18 |
| CPP | $1,364.60 | Based on lifetime contributions |
| GIS | $1,086.88 | For low-income OAS recipients |
These programs are designed to work together, with OAS and CPP providing a base income and GIS offering extra support for those with lower earnings.
Old Age Security (OAS)
OAS is a monthly payment for Canadians aged 65 and over with at least 10 years of residency in the country after age 18.
- Amount: $727.67 (ages 65–74), $800.44 (75+).
- Clawback: Benefits reduce if annual income exceeds $86,912.
- Deferral Bonus: Delaying OAS up to age 70 increases payments by 0.6% per month.
Learn more on the official OAS page.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
CPP is based on contributions during your working years. To get the maximum $1,364.60 at 65, you must have contributed the maximum amount over nearly your entire career.
- Early Option: Start at 60 with reduced payments.
- Delay Bonus: Wait until 70 to boost payments by up to 42%.
- Average Payment: In 2025, most retirees will receive about $811.21 per month.
See the CPP payment details here.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
GIS is a tax-free monthly payment for low-income seniors who receive OAS.
- Maximum: $1,086.88 for single seniors in 2025.
- Reduction: Payment decreases as your income rises.
- Tax Filing: File taxes annually to remain eligible.
2025 Payment Dates
OAS, CPP, and GIS payments are issued on the last three business days of each month:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Jan | Jan 29 |
| Feb | Feb 26 |
| Mar | Mar 27 |
| Apr | Apr 28 |
| May | May 28 |
| Jun | Jun 26 |
| Jul | Jul 29 |
| Aug | Aug 27 |
| Sep | Sep 25 |
| Oct | Oct 29 |
| Nov | Nov 26 |
| Dec | Dec 22 |
Maximizing Your Pension
To get closer to the $3,716 monthly maximum:
- Delay benefits: Wait until age 70 for OAS and CPP to increase payments.
- Avoid clawbacks: Keep income below $86,912 to protect OAS.
- File taxes yearly: This keeps GIS eligibility active.
- Plan ahead: Use government pension calculators to estimate your benefits.
While few will qualify for the full amount, strategic planning can help you significantly increase your pension income in retirement.
FAQs
Can you really get $3,716 a month in Canada?
Yes, but only by combining max OAS, CPP, and GIS.
What is the max CPP payment in 2025?
$1,364.60 per month.
How can I increase my CPP?
Delay payments until age 70.
Who gets the GIS benefit?
Low-income seniors on OAS.
Is GIS taxable?
No, it’s tax-free.
