In 2025, some Canadian seniors could receive up to $3,716 per month in retirement income by combining three major government programs: Old Age Security (OAS), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
While this amount sounds impressive, it’s important to understand that it’s not a single new benefit — it’s the maximum possible total for those who meet all eligibility criteria at the highest payout levels.
This guide will break down how the $3,716 figure is calculated, who can qualify, how to apply, and when payments will be issued in 2025.
Breaking Down the $3,716 Monthly Pension
The total monthly income comes from three separate programs. Each has its own rules, payment amounts, and eligibility requirements.
| Program | Maximum Monthly Amount (2025) | Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age Security (OAS) | $727.67 (ages 65–74) / $800.44 (75+) | 65+, minimum 10 years residency in Canada after age 18 |
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | Up to $1,364.60 | Based on lifetime contributions to CPP during working years |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Up to $1,086.88 | Low-income OAS recipients; amount depends on annual income |
| Total | Up to $3,716 | Must qualify for maximum in all three programs |
Old Age Security (OAS): Canada’s Universal Pension
OAS is available to most seniors aged 65 and above who have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. No work history is required, making it a vital income source for retirees.
- 2025 Payment Rates:
- Ages 65–74: $727.67/month
- Ages 75+: $800.44/month (10% bonus)
- You can defer OAS up to age 70 to increase payments by 0.6% per month (up to 36%).
- OAS Clawback: If your annual income exceeds $86,912, payments are reduced.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Earnings-Based Retirement Income
CPP payments depend entirely on your work history and contributions during your career.
- Can start at age 60 (reduced payments) or defer to age 70 (42% increase).
- 2025 Average Payment: $811.21/month
- Maximum Payment: $1,364.60/month for those with maximum contributions for 39+ years.
- Delaying CPP can significantly increase your lifetime income if you’re in good health.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): Tax-Free Extra Support
GIS is a non-taxable monthly benefit for low-income OAS recipients.
- Maximum in 2025: $1,086.88/month for single seniors.
- Amount decreases as annual income increases.
- You must file your taxes each year to remain eligible.
GIS is particularly important for seniors with limited CPP benefits, helping ensure a baseline standard of living.
How to Apply for OAS, CPP, and GIS
- Check Eligibility
- Age 65+ for OAS and GIS
- At least 10 years in Canada for OAS/GIS
- CPP requires contribution history
- Prepare Documents
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Bank account details (for direct deposit)
- Most recent tax return
- Apply
- Use My Service Canada Account (MSCA) for online applications
- Or mail completed forms to Service Canada
- Track Application
- Processing usually takes 6–8 weeks
- Check MSCA for updates
2025 Payment Dates for CPP, OAS, and GIS
Payments are usually sent on the last three business days of each month.
| 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 |
Tips to Maximize Your Retirement Income
- Delay benefits: Postpone CPP and OAS to age 70 for higher payouts.
- Avoid OAS clawback: Keep annual income under $86,912.
- File taxes annually: Essential for GIS eligibility.
- Use government calculators: Estimate your CPP and OAS benefits on Canada.ca.
- Review your MSCA account regularly to ensure details are up to date.
The $3,716 monthly pension isn’t a single program but the maximum possible income a senior can receive by qualifying for OAS, CPP, and GIS at their highest levels. Strategic planning—like delaying benefits, keeping income thresholds in check, and filing taxes annually—can make a huge difference in your retirement income.
Whether you’re approaching retirement or already receiving benefits, understanding the system ensures you make the most of your entitlements.
FAQs
Is the $3,716 pension a new benefit in Canada?
No. It’s the combined maximum from OAS, CPP, and GIS for seniors who qualify for all three at the highest rates.
Can I receive $3,716 if I haven’t worked in Canada?
No. Without CPP contributions, you won’t qualify for the CPP portion, but you may still receive OAS and GIS.
Are CPP and OAS taxable?
Yes, both are taxable, but GIS is non-taxable.