In 2025, millions of Canadians will receive financial support through federal benefit programs that help cover basic needs like housing, food, and transportation. Programs such as the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), Canada Workers Benefit (CWB), the Climate Action Incentive Payment (CAIP), and the GST/HST Credit are designed to support retirees, low-income workers, and families.
To take full advantage of these programs, it’s important to know when payments arrive and whether you qualify. This guide outlines the 2025 payment dates, eligibility criteria, and helpful tips to maximize your benefits.
Overview
Here’s a summary table of key federal benefit payments in 2025:
| Benefit | Payment Dates | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | Jan 29, Feb 26, Mar 27, Apr 28, May 28, Jun 26, Jul 29, Aug 27, Sep 25, Oct 29, Nov 26, Dec 22 | Canadians aged 60+ who have made at least one valid CPP contribution |
| Old Age Security (OAS) | Same as CPP dates | Canadians aged 65+, resident for at least 10 years |
| Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | Jan 10, Jul 11, Oct 10 | Low-income workers with employment or business income |
| Climate Action Incentive (CAIP) | Jan 15, Apr 15, Jul 15, Oct 15 | Residents of AB, SK, MB, ON meeting family or age criteria |
| GST/HST Credit | Jan 3, Apr 4, Jul 4, Oct 3 | Low/moderate-income individuals who file a tax return |
Let’s go deeper into each benefit.
CPP
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a monthly pension for Canadians who contributed during their working years. The earliest you can start is age 60, though the standard age is 65. Delaying beyond 65 increases your monthly amount.
2025 CPP Payment Dates:
- January 29
- February 26
- March 27
- April 28
- May 28
- June 26
- July 29
- August 27
- September 25
- October 29
- November 26
- December 22
Eligibility:
- Must have made at least one valid CPP contribution
- Can start at 60 (reduced benefit) or delay for a higher payout
- Payments grow by 0.7% per month if taken after age 65
How to Apply:
- Use My Service Canada Account for online applications
- Or, complete and mail a paper application to Service Canada
- Apply six months before your desired start date
OAS
Old Age Security (OAS) is a monthly payment for seniors aged 65 and older. Unlike CPP, it doesn’t require contributions and is based on age and residency.
2025 OAS Payment Dates:
Same as CPP dates listed above.
Eligibility:
- Age 65 or older
- Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18
How to Apply:
- Many seniors are auto-enrolled
- If not, apply online or by paper through Service Canada
CWB
The Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) helps low-income individuals and families who work. In 2025, advance payments continue to be issued three times per year.
2025 CWB Advance Payment Dates:
- January 10
- July 11
- October 10
Eligibility:
- Must have working income and a low annual income
- Based on 2024 tax return
- Automatically issued if eligible—no separate application required
CAIP
The Climate Action Incentive Payment (CAIP) helps residents in provinces where the federal carbon pricing system applies. In 2025, it’s issued quarterly.
2025 CAIP Payment Dates:
- January 15
- April 15
- July 15
- October 15
Eligibility:
- Residents of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, or Ontario
- Must meet basic tax filing and residency criteria
- Includes a supplement for rural residents in eligible provinces
GST/HST
The GST/HST Credit is a quarterly, tax-free payment to offset sales taxes for low- and moderate-income Canadians.
2025 GST/HST Payment Dates:
- January 3
- April 4
- July 4
- October 3
Eligibility:
- Based on 2024 income tax return
- Must be a resident of Canada for tax purposes
- Up to $650/year for couples, $496 for singles, and $171 per child
Tips to Maximize Benefits
- File Taxes Early: Most benefits are tied to your annual tax return. Even if your income is low, file your taxes to qualify.
- Sign Up for Direct Deposit: Get your payments quickly and safely by registering your banking info with CRA or Service Canada.
- Monitor Eligibility Changes: Life events like marriage, new children, or relocation can affect your eligibility or payment amount.
- Use My Service Canada Account: This portal lets you manage CPP, OAS, and more from one place.
- Contact CRA or Service Canada: If your payment is late or you’re unsure about eligibility, reach out for help.
Staying informed about when benefits arrive and how to qualify can help you build a more stable financial year in 2025. Whether you’re retired, working, or raising a family, Canada’s support programs are here to make life a little easier.
FAQs
When will CPP and OAS be paid in 2025?
Payments are made monthly on the same schedule from January to December.
Who qualifies for the CAIP?
Residents of AB, SK, MB, and ON who meet tax and age criteria.
Is the Canada Workers Benefit automatic?
Yes, if you qualify based on your tax return, it’s paid automatically.
What’s the GST/HST credit in 2025?
Up to $650 for couples, depending on your 2024 income.
How do I apply for CPP or OAS?
Apply online or by paper through Service Canada. Many are auto-enrolled for OAS.
