The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a vital source of income for many retirees in Canada. In 2025, eligible seniors can expect a deposit of $1,546, providing financial stability during their retirement years. Understanding eligibility criteria, payment schedules, and additional benefits can help seniors plan their finances effectively.
Understanding the OAS Program
The Old Age Security (OAS) program is a government-funded pension plan that provides monthly payments to seniors aged 65 and older. Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), OAS is not based on an individual’s work history or contributions but rather on residency in Canada. The payment amount is reviewed quarterly to adjust for inflation through the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Eligibility for the $1,546 OAS Deposit
To receive the OAS pension in 2025, individuals must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Age Requirement: You must be 65 years or older.
- Residency: You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18 to qualify for partial OAS and 40 years for full OAS.
- Citizenship Status: Canadian citizens or legal residents who meet the residency requirement are eligible.
- Income Thresholds: The OAS benefit amount is subject to the OAS Clawback (Recovery Tax) for those with high income. In 2025, if your annual income exceeds the threshold (expected to be around $90,000), your benefits may be reduced.

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OAS Payment Schedule for 2025
The Government of Canada releases OAS payments on a fixed schedule. The expected OAS deposit dates for 2025 are:
- January 29, 2025
- February 26, 2025
- March 27, 2025
- April 29, 2025
- May 28, 2025
- June 26, 2025
- July 29, 2025
- August 28, 2025
- September 26, 2025
- October 29, 2025
- November 27, 2025
- December 23, 2025
Seniors can expect the $1,546 OAS deposit on these dates, depending on their eligibility and any applicable deductions.
Breakdown of the OAS Amount
The base OAS pension amount varies based on factors like age and income. In 2025, the maximum monthly OAS payment is projected to be around $1,546 due to inflation adjustments.
- Standard OAS Payment: Seniors aged 65+ receive the base amount.
- OAS Supplement for 75+: Seniors aged 75 and older receive an additional 10% boost to their payments.
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): Low-income seniors may qualify for additional payments under the GIS program, providing further financial assistance.
How to Apply for OAS
Many eligible seniors are automatically enrolled in the OAS program, but some may need to apply manually. Here’s how to apply:
- Check Your Status: If you don’t receive an automatic enrollment letter, visit My Service Canada Account (MSCA) to check eligibility.
- Complete the Application: You can apply online or by mailing a completed OAS application form to Service Canada.
- Submit Necessary Documents: Provide proof of residency and identity if required.
- Wait for Processing: Approval typically takes 6 to 8 weeks before payments begin.

Taxes and Deductions on OAS
The OAS pension is taxable income. Seniors with higher incomes may face OAS Clawback deductions, which reduce payments based on income level. To minimize tax impacts, consider:
- Splitting pension income with a spouse to lower taxable income.
- Contributing to a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) to shelter retirement income.
- Deferring OAS payments (up to age 70) to increase the monthly payout by 0.6% per month.
Conclusion
The $1,546 OAS deposit in 2025 is a crucial financial benefit for Canadian seniors, providing them with essential retirement income. Understanding eligibility criteria, payment schedules, and tax implications can help retirees maximize their benefits. Whether you’re already receiving OAS or preparing to apply, staying informed will ensure you make the most of your pension.
FAQs
u003cstrongu003e1. Can I receive OAS if I live outside Canada?u003c/strongu003e
Yes, but you must have lived in Canada for u003cstrongu003eat least 20 yearsu003c/strongu003e after turning 18 to qualify while living abroad.
u003cstrongu003e2. How can I increase my OAS payments?u003c/strongu003e
You can defer OAS payments u003cstrongu003eup to age 70u003c/strongu003e, which increases your monthly benefit by u003cstrongu003e0.6% for each delayed monthu003c/strongu003e.
u003cstrongu003e3. Is OAS affected by other pension income?u003c/strongu003e
Yes, if your annual income exceeds the u003cstrongu003eOAS Clawback thresholdu003c/strongu003e, your benefits may be reduced or eliminated.
u003cstrongu003e4. Can I apply for OAS early?u003c/strongu003e
No, the earliest you can claim OAS is u003cstrongu003eat age 65u003c/strongu003e. However, you can delay it for higher benefits.
u003cstrongu003e5. What happens if I miss an OAS payment?u003c/strongu003e
If you do not receive your payment on the scheduled date, check your u003cstrongu003ebank details and Service Canada accountu003c/strongu003e or contact the OAS support center for assistance.