CPP & OAS Payments: For millions of Canadian seniors, Canada’s CPP & OAS payments serve as essential financial lifelines, helping to cover everything from groceries and rent to medical costs and transportation. If you’re asking yourself whether you might be one of the lucky recipients of up to $2,700 in federal pension deposits this April 2025, this comprehensive guide is just what you need. We’ll cover who qualifies, how much you might receive, how the system works, and practical steps to maximize your monthly income.

Thanks to the most recent Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), benefit amounts have risen for many. This annual increase is designed to help seniors keep up with inflation. But understanding what this means for you — and how to make the most of it — can feel complicated. That’s why we’ve broken everything down in clear, easy-to-follow sections with official sources, accurate data, and expert-backed strategies.
CPP & OAS Payments
Topic | Details |
---|---|
Maximum CPP Payment (April 2025) | $1,433.00/month |
Maximum OAS Payment (65-74) | $727.67/month |
Maximum OAS Payment (75+) | $800.44/month |
Total Max CPP + OAS (75+) | $2,233.44/month |
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Up to $1,086.88/month for low-income seniors |
Payment Date (April 2025) | April 28, 2025 |
Eligibility Age | 60+ for CPP, 65+ for OAS |
Official Website | canada.ca |
For Canadian seniors, April 2025 is shaping up to be a financially important month. With combined CPP and OAS payments reaching up to $2,700 or even more for those eligible for GIS, this is a great time to revisit your retirement strategy.
Whether you’re already receiving benefits or about to apply, staying informed helps you make smart, income-boosting decisions. Check your eligibility, mark the payment date, and use the tips above to get the most from what you’ve earned.
Understanding CPP and OAS: A Quick Overview
Let’s start with the basics. The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) are two core pillars of Canada’s retirement income system. While both provide regular monthly payments, they are very different in structure, funding, and eligibility.
What is CPP?
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a mandatory, earnings-based program that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. Throughout your working life, you contribute a portion of your income to the CPP, and your employer matches it. These contributions determine the benefit you receive during retirement.
- You can begin receiving CPP benefits as early as age 60, but this comes with a reduction.
- Waiting until age 65 gets you the standard amount, and delaying up to age 70 results in an even higher monthly benefit.
- The maximum CPP monthly payment at age 65 in 2025 is $1,433.00, but the average payment is usually much lower — around $758.32.
What is OAS?
The Old Age Security (OAS) program is funded through general government revenues, not through payroll contributions like CPP. This makes it available to most Canadians over 65, regardless of work history, provided residency requirements are met.
- The maximum monthly amount for seniors aged 65-74 is $727.67, while those aged 75 and over may receive up to $800.44.
- OAS is also indexed quarterly based on inflation.
A major difference between CPP and OAS is that OAS can be clawed back if your income is too high, while CPP is not.
April 2025 Payments: How Much Can You Expect?
Let’s dive into the numbers. Not every recipient will receive the maximum amounts, but many will get close depending on their contribution history and age.
Scenario 1: Seniors Aged 65 to 74
- CPP: Up to $1,433.00
- OAS: Up to $727.67
- Combined Total: $2,160.67/month
Scenario 2: Seniors Aged 75 and Older
- CPP: Up to $1,433.00
- OAS: Up to $800.44
- Combined Total: $2,233.44/month
Now, here’s the good news for low-income seniors:
Add GIS for Low-Income Seniors
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) provides additional non-taxable monthly payments.
- Single seniors with annual income under $21,000 may qualify for up to $1,086.88/month.
- Couples with a combined income below approximately $27,000 could also be eligible.
This brings the total to well over $3,300/month in some cases, especially for seniors aged 75+.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Receive CPP, OAS, and GIS?
Understanding your eligibility is critical — here’s a breakdown:
For CPP:
- Must be at least 60 years old.
- Must have made valid contributions through work or self-employment.
- You do not need to stop working to collect CPP.
For OAS:
- Must be 65 years of age or older.
- Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident.
- Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18 (20 years to receive it abroad).
For GIS:
- Must already be receiving OAS.
- Income must fall below the GIS income threshold.
When Will the April 2025 CPP & OAS Payments Arrive?
If you’re enrolled in CPP or OAS, mark April 28, 2025, on your calendar. This is the scheduled federal pension payment date for that month. Payments are typically deposited directly into your bank account.
If you are still receiving physical cheques, be aware that postal delays can occur. It is highly recommended to switch to direct deposit through your My Service Canada Account (MSCA).
How to Maximize Your Retirement Benefits
Even if you’re already receiving CPP and OAS, there are smart ways to increase your income or avoid deductions. Here’s how:
1. Delay CPP and OAS to Increase Monthly Amounts
If you wait until after age 65 to claim benefits:
- CPP increases by 0.7% for every month delayed, up to 42% more by age 70.
- OAS increases by 0.6% per month delayed, up to 36% more by age 70.
Delaying both until 70 could result in over $800/month more in combined benefits.
2. Avoid the OAS Clawback
OAS begins to be clawed back if your annual income exceeds $86,912 (2024 threshold).
- Consider shifting income to Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs).
- Reduce RRSP withdrawals strategically.
- Talk to a financial advisor about income-splitting with a spouse to reduce your tax burden.
3. Apply for GIS Promptly
If you’re eligible for GIS, don’t delay:
- It’s non-taxable.
- It can provide significant monthly top-ups.
- Apply through your My Service Canada Account or by paper form.
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Frequently Asked Questions About CPP & OAS Payments
1. Can I get both CPP and OAS at the same time?
Absolutely. Most Canadians collect both CPP and OAS once they turn 65. You can start CPP earlier if needed.
2. I live abroad. Can I still receive benefits?
Yes — with conditions:
- CPP is payable worldwide.
- OAS is only paid abroad if you lived in Canada for 20+ years after age 18.
3. Will my benefits continue to rise over time?
Yes. CPP is adjusted annually, while OAS is updated quarterly, both based on inflation via the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
4. How do I apply for CPP, OAS, or GIS?
- Use the My Service Canada Account (MSCA) to apply online.
- Or submit paper forms by mail.