Canadian seniors have been hearing about a $2,455 OAS payment in February 2025, leaving many wondering how this amount is calculated and who qualifies.
Understanding how the Old Age Security (OAS) program works and how payments are structured is essential for planning your retirement finances.
In this guide, we’ll explain what’s behind the $2,455 figure, the eligibility criteria, and the official OAS payment schedule for 2025.
What Is the OAS Payment?
The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a government-funded retirement benefit designed to help Canadian seniors maintain financial security.
Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), which is based on your work history and contributions, OAS is a universal benefit funded through general tax revenue.
In 2025, the maximum monthly OAS payments are as follows:
- Ages 65–74: $727.67 per month
- Ages 75 and older: $800.44 per month
In addition to OAS, low-income seniors may qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which can significantly boost their monthly income. The maximum GIS payment for single seniors in 2025 is $1,086.88 per month.
Together, OAS and GIS can add up to $1,814.55 (ages 65–74) or $1,887.32 (ages 75+) per month.
What’s Behind the $2,455 Payment?
The widely discussed $2,455 payment is not a standard monthly amount for all seniors. Here’s what it could represent:
- OAS + GIS combination payments: Seniors receiving both OAS and GIS can receive up to nearly $1,900 per month.
- Retroactive payments: If a senior qualifies for retroactive payments due to delayed enrollment, their February payment could be a higher lump sum.
However, this $2,455 is not a standard lump sum available to all recipients. The actual amount will depend on your specific situation, such as your GIS eligibility, income, and retroactive benefits.
Who Qualifies for the OAS Payment?
To qualify for OAS, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Be 65 years or older.
- Residency Requirement: You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18. Full OAS is available after 40 years of residency.
- Legal Status: Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident.
Additional Eligibility for GIS
The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is available to low-income seniors receiving OAS. To qualify for GIS in 2025, you must:
- Be a Canadian resident.
- Be receiving OAS.
- Have an annual income below the GIS threshold.
GIS benefits provide an extra layer of support for seniors with little to no other income and are tax-free.
OAS Payment Schedule for 2025
OAS payments are made on the last business day of each month. Here’s the official schedule for 2025:
| Month | OAS Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | January 29, 2025 |
| February 2025 | February 26, 2025 |
| March 2025 | March 27, 2025 |
| April 2025 | April 29, 2025 |
| May 2025 | May 28, 2025 |
| June 2025 | June 26, 2025 |
| July 2025 | July 29, 2025 |
| August 2025 | August 28, 2025 |
| September 2025 | September 26, 2025 |
| October 2025 | October 29, 2025 |
| November 2025 | November 27, 2025 |
| December 2025 | December 23, 2025 |
The February 2025 OAS payment will be deposited on February 26, 2025. If you receive your payments by direct deposit, expect the funds in your account on that date.
How to Apply for OAS
Many seniors are automatically enrolled in OAS when they turn 65. If you haven’t received a notification letter, you may need to apply.
Steps to Apply for OAS
- Check your eligibility on the official Canada.ca website.
- Gather your documents, such as proof of age and residency.
- Apply online through your My Service Canada Account or submit a paper application by mail.
- Monitor your application status and keep copies of all submitted documents.
- Receive your first payment once your application is approved. Processing may take several months.
Pro Tip: Apply for OAS six months before your 65th birthday to avoid delays in receiving your first payment.
Tips for Maximizing Your OAS and GIS
- Avoid the OAS Clawback: The OAS recovery tax kicks in for incomes above $86,912 in 2025. Minimize taxable income by contributing to a TFSA or splitting pension income with your spouse.
- Check for Additional Benefits: Low-income seniors can access other federal and provincial programs, such as the Ontario Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS), which provides extra financial support.
- Delay OAS for Higher Payments: If you defer OAS beyond age 65, your monthly payment will increase by 0.6% for each month you delay, up to age 70. This can boost your retirement income if you live longer.
The $2,455 OAS payment might not be a typical monthly amount for most seniors, but understanding how OAS and GIS work together can help you better manage your retirement income.
Always keep an eye on eligibility rules and payment schedules to maximize your benefits.
