In 2025, many Canadian seniors are hearing about a $3,716 monthly pension. While this isn’t one single payment, it’s the combined maximum amount a senior could get if they qualify for the highest rates of Old Age Security (OAS), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
If you’re wondering how these benefits work together and whether you can reach that amount, here’s the full breakdown.
Amounts
This total comes from adding up the maximum 2025 rates of three separate programs:
| Program | Maximum Monthly Amount (2025) | Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| OAS | $727.67 (ages 65–74) / $800.44 (75+) | Age 65+, residency requirement |
| CPP | Up to $1,364.60 | Based on lifetime contributions |
| GIS | Up to $1,086.88 | For low-income OAS recipients |
| Total | Up to $3,716 | If eligible for all maximums |
OAS
OAS is available to Canadians aged 65 or older who have lived in the country for at least 10 years after age 18.
- Monthly Payment (2025): $727.67 (65–74) or $800.44 (75+)
- Clawback: Benefits reduce if income exceeds $86,912
- Deferral Bonus: Waiting until age 70 boosts payments by 0.6% per month
CPP
CPP payments are based on how much and how long you contributed during your working years.
- Average Payment (2025): $811.21 per month
- Maximum Payment: $1,364.60 at age 65 with full contributions
- Early Option: Start at 60 with a reduction
- Delay Bonus: Up to 42% higher if you wait until 70
GIS
GIS is a tax-free monthly supplement for low-income seniors already receiving OAS.
- Maximum (2025): $1,086.88 for singles
- Payments shrink as income rises
- Annual tax filing required to keep benefits
Payment Dates
OAS, CPP, and GIS are usually paid on the last three business days of each month. For 2025:
| 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 |
Eligibility
- OAS: Age 65+, at least 10 years residency after 18
- CPP: Valid contributions during your working life
- GIS: Low annual income and OAS recipient
Maximizing
If you want to get the highest pension possible:
- Delay starting OAS and CPP for larger monthly payouts
- Keep income below OAS clawback limits
- File taxes every year to stay eligible for GIS
- Use the government’s online calculators to plan ahead
While no single $3,716 pension exists, it’s possible to reach that total in 2025 if you qualify for the top OAS, CPP, and GIS rates. Knowing the rules, payment dates, and strategies can help you secure the most income for your retirement years.
FAQs
Is there really a $3,716 pension?
No, it’s the combined max of OAS, CPP, and GIS.
What is the max CPP payment in 2025?
$1,364.60 per month at age 65.
How much is OAS in 2025?
$727.67 for ages 65–74, $800.44 for 75+.
Who qualifies for GIS?
Low-income seniors receiving OAS.
When are pension payments made?
On the last 3 business days of each month.
