The following document presents the entire information regarding the $770 OAS (Old Age Security) benefit Canada will provide in March 2025. The monthly financial aid from this government program assists elderly citizens to maintain their financial security during their retirement. Let us understand in detail who is eligible, how much money will be received, what are the additional benefits, and how to apply.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Canadian citizens or legal residents aged 65 and above, with at least 10 years of residency in Canada after age 18. |
| Maximum Monthly Payment (Ages 65-74) | $727.67 |
| Maximum Monthly Payment (Ages 75 and over) | $800.44 |
| Supplementary Benefits | Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), Allowance, Allowance for the Survivor |
| Payment Date for March 2025 | March 27, 2025 |
| Official Resource | Government of Canada – Old Age Security |
What is OAS (Old Age Security)?
OAS is a monthly pension benefit given to senior citizens by the Government of Canada. It is different from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) as you do not need to have a job or make contributions to get it. This scheme is for all those people who have lived in Canada for a certain period of time and have completed 65 years of age.
Eligibility
There are some necessary conditions to be fulfilled to get OAS—
1. Age condition:
- To get the benefit, the person must be at least 65 years of age.
2. Residency conditions:
If you are living in Canada:
- You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- You must have resided in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18.
If you have left Canada:
- You were a Canadian citizen or permanent resident before leaving Canada.
- You must have resided in Canada for at least 20 years after turning 18.
Note: Even if you have never worked, you can still receive OAS if you meet these conditions.
OAS payments in March 2025
OAS payments are adjusted four times a year (January, April, July and October) according to the inflation rate (CPI – Consumer Price Index).
- For ages 65 to 74: $727.67 per month
- For ages 75 or older: $800.44 per month
Important:
In July 2022, OAS payments for seniors aged 75+ were permanently increased by 10%.
Supplementary Benefits
In addition to OAS, there are some additional support programs that can help seniors in need—
1. GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement)
- This is a tax-free support amount for low-income people receiving OAS.
- Unmarried seniors with an annual income of less than $22,056 can get up to $1,086.88 per month.
2. Allowance
- This is for low-income individuals between the ages of 60 and 64 and whose spouse receives OAS and GIS.
- Up to a maximum of $1,381.90 per month can be received.
3. Allowance for the Survivor
- This is available to those whose spouse has died and their income is very low.
- Up to a maximum of $1,647.34 per month is provided.
OAS Payment Date
OAS payments are issued on the third last working day of every month.
- Payment date for March 2025: 27 March 2025
How to apply for OAS? (How to Apply for OAS?)
- Some people are automatically enrolled, but those who are not enrolled have to apply.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Confirm eligibility – Make sure you meet the age and residency requirements.
2. Gather the required documents –
- Birth Certificate
- Citizenship or Residence Certificate
- Bank Statement (if you want payment directly into bank account)
3. Fill out the application:
- Online: Through My Service Canada Account.
- By post: Download, fill out and send the OAS application form.
4. Submit the application and wait for confirmation.
5. Receive a confirmation letter from Service Canada.
FAQs about OAS
1. Can I receive OAS if I live outside Canada?
Canadian citizens who spent at least 20 years living in Canada after becoming 18 years old are eligible to receive OAS benefits even when they reside outside the country.
2. Is OAS taxable?
Yes, OAS payments are taxable, and some amount may be deducted from OAS depending on your total annual income.
3. What happens if my income exceeds the OAS limit?
If your annual income exceeds $86,912 (as of 2023), you may have to pay OAS recovery tax.
4. Can I defer OAS payments?
Yes, you can defer OAS for up to 5 years (up to age 70). Doing so increases your monthly amount.
Final Thoughts
The OAS scheme provides seniors with monthly assistance ranging from $727.67 to $800.44 in March 2025. If you have a lower income, you may also be eligible for GIS, Allowance, or Survivor Benefits. To receive OAS, you must be 65 years of age and have resided in Canada for a certain number of years.