A significant financial update is on the horizon for Canadian seniors. In July 2025, the Old Age Security (OAS) payment will be issued across the country with enhanced amounts, offering up to \$1,860 per month for eligible residents. The boost, which includes a 1% quarterly hike and a 2.3% annual increase from July 2024, reflects the federal government’s efforts to support retirees amid rising inflation and living costs.
The Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) confirmed the changes to help ensure that senior citizens maintain a stable financial foundation.
OAS Payments Increased to Match Inflation (July 2025 Payout)
OAS payments are reviewed quarterly and adjusted to align with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). For July to September 2025, there’s a 1% increase over the previous quarter and a 2.3% increase compared to the same quarter in 2024. This ensures that retirees can better manage their daily expenses such as food, healthcare, and housing.
The maximum monthly payment for seniors aged 75 and above is now around \$808.45, but those who also qualify for other income-tested supplements could see total payments reach up to \$1,860 per month.
Not Everyone Gets the Full \$1,860 – Here’s Why
The \$1,860 figure is not a standard flat payment for all OAS recipients. Instead, it’s a combined total that includes:
- Basic OAS pension
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Additional age-based top-ups
- Other federal senior allowances
Eligibility for the full amount depends on factors such as:
- Age group (65–74 or 75+)
- Number of residency years in Canada
- Income level
- Participation in other federal assistance programs
Who Can Qualify for OAS Payments?
To receive Old Age Security benefits, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:
- Be 65 years or older
- Be a legal Canadian resident or citizen
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18
Full OAS vs Partial OAS: What’s the Difference?
Full OAS Pension
Seniors who have lived in Canada for 40 years or more after turning 18 may receive the maximum OAS amount.
Partial OAS Pension
Seniors with 10 to 39 years of Canadian residency may receive a partial pension, calculated using this formula:
(Years lived in Canada ÷ 40) × Maximum OAS amount
For example, someone with 20 years of residency would receive 50% of the full benefit.
Special Cases for Former Residents
Even non-residents may receive OAS under certain conditions. If a former resident:
- Lived in Canada for over 20 years after age 18
- Became a Canadian citizen before moving abroad
- Has an agreement under International Social Security treaties
Then the ESDC may offer alternate pathways to qualify.
Who Will Receive the Maximum \$1,860 OAS Payment?
Only those who meet all of the following criteria can receive the maximum payout:
- Are 75 years or older
- Have lived in Canada for 10+ years
- Earn below the income threshold set by the ESDC
- Receive full OAS
- Qualify for GIS and other federal top-ups
Breakdown of OAS Payments by Age and Supplements
Here’s a table to clarify the estimated maximum benefits:
| Senior Age Group | Monthly OAS | Extra Income from Government | Total Maximum Received |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ages 65–74 | Up to \$734.95 | Not applicable | Up to \$734.95 |
| Age 75+ | Up to \$808.45 | GIS / Allowances / Top-ups | Up to \$1,860 |
Additional Federal Programs That Boost Monthly Income
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Offers up to \$1,086 per month
- Aimed at low-income seniors
- Amount depends on marital status and total income
The Allowance (for Spouses or Common-Law Partners)
- Up to \$654.23 per month
- For couples where one partner is 60–64 and the other qualifies for full OAS
- Must meet income requirements
Survivor Allowance
- Offers up to \$1,647 per month
- Available for widowed spouses of OAS/GIS recipients
- Designed to support seniors who have no other income source
How to Ensure You Receive the Full Benefit
To secure your OAS and supplemental benefits, follow these steps:
- File your taxes annually – It helps verify your income for GIS and other benefits.
- Update personal details in your My CRA account – especially if you change address, marital status, or province.
- Ensure residency records are accurate – especially if you lived outside Canada temporarily.
- Apply on time – If turning 65 soon, apply up to 11 months in advance.
Summary of July 2025 OAS Payment Highlights
- Seniors aged 75 and above may receive up to \$1,860 monthly
- The standard OAS payment for ages 65–74 is around \$734
- Amounts vary based on income, residency, and program eligibility
- Recent 2.3% annual increase reflects rising cost of living
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is \$1,860 the base OAS payment?
No, it’s a combined total including OAS, GIS, and other supplements. Most recipients will receive less.
2. Who gets the full \$1,860 in July 2025?
Only seniors aged 75+ who qualify for full OAS, GIS, and additional allowances may receive the full amount.
3. Has OAS increased for 2025?
Yes, OAS was raised by 1% this quarter and 2.3% compared to July 2024, due to inflation indexing.
4. Can I qualify for OAS if I lived outside Canada?
Yes, under certain international agreements, former long-term residents may qualify if they lived in Canada for 20+ years after age 18.
5. How do I calculate partial OAS?
Multiply your years lived in Canada after age 18 by 1/40 of the full OAS amount. That gives your partial pension rate.