In 2025, many Canadian seniors are talking about a $3,716 monthly pension. While this may sound like a single payment from one program, it’s actually the combined total of three different benefits: Old Age Security (OAS), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
Each program has its own eligibility criteria, payment rates, and application process. If you qualify for the maximum amounts from all three, you can receive up to $3,716 per month in 2025.
Here’s a full breakdown of how it works, who qualifies, when payments are made, and how you can claim them.
How the $3,716 Monthly Pension is Calculated
This figure comes from adding the maximum monthly payments from OAS, CPP, and GIS in 2025.
| Program | Maximum Monthly Amount (2025) | Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| OAS | $727.67 (ages 65–74) / $800.44 (75+) | Age 65+, Canadian residency requirement |
| CPP | $1,364.60 | Based on lifetime contributions and retirement age |
| GIS | $1,086.88 | For low-income seniors already receiving OAS |
| Total | Up to $3,716 | If eligible for all maximums |
Note: To reach the $3,716 figure, you must qualify for all three programs at their highest rates.
Old Age Security (OAS)
The Old Age Security pension is a monthly benefit for Canadians aged 65 or older.
- Eligibility: You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18.
- Payment Amount (2025):
- Ages 65–74: $727.67/month
- Ages 75+: $800.44/month
- Clawback: If your annual income exceeds $86,912, OAS payments are reduced.
- Boosting Your OAS: You can delay starting OAS until age 70, increasing the payment by 0.6% for each month delayed (up to 36% higher).
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
The Canada Pension Plan is based on your employment contributions during your working years.
- Eligibility: You must have made valid CPP contributions.
- Payment Amount (2025):
- Average monthly CPP: $811.21
- Maximum monthly CPP: $1,364.60 (if you contributed at maximum levels and start at 65)
- Starting Early or Late:
- You can start CPP as early as age 60, but it will be reduced.
- Delaying CPP until age 70 can increase your payment by up to 42%.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is a tax-free monthly payment for low-income seniors who already receive OAS.
- Eligibility: Must be receiving OAS and have income below the annual GIS threshold.
- Payment Amount (2025):
- Maximum for a single senior: $1,086.88/month
- Amount is reduced as your income increases.
- Tax Filing Requirement: You must file your taxes every year to keep receiving GIS.
Payment Dates for OAS, CPP, and GIS in 2025
All three benefits are paid on the same dates each month.
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | Jan 29, 2025 |
| February | Feb 26, 2025 |
| March | Mar 27, 2025 |
| April | Apr 28, 2025 |
| May | May 28, 2025 |
| June | Jun 26, 2025 |
| July | Jul 29, 2025 |
| August | Aug 27, 2025 |
| September | Sep 25, 2025 |
| October | Oct 29, 2025 |
| November | Nov 26, 2025 |
| December | Dec 22, 2025 |
Eligibility Summary
- OAS: Age 65+, 10+ years in Canada after age 18.
- CPP: Valid contributions during working years, benefit based on amount contributed and retirement age.
- GIS: Low annual income, receiving OAS, Canadian residency.
How to Claim
- OAS & GIS: Apply through Service Canada (online, by mail, or in person). In some cases, you may be enrolled automatically.
- CPP: Must apply online via your My Service Canada Account or by submitting a paper application.
Maximizing Your Pension Income
To get the highest possible monthly income in retirement:
- Delay Benefits: Consider starting OAS and CPP later to increase monthly amounts.
- Avoid Clawbacks: Keep your taxable income below OAS clawback limits.
- File Taxes on Time: This ensures continued GIS payments and avoids delays.
- Check Your CPP Contributions: Review your contribution record and fill in any gaps if possible.
- Use Pension Calculators: Service Canada offers tools to estimate your future benefits.
The $3,716 monthly pension in 2025 is not a single payment but the total possible amount from OAS, CPP, and GIS combined. Achieving this figure requires meeting maximum eligibility for each program.
By understanding the requirements, planning your start dates, and keeping your income within certain limits, you can optimize your retirement income and ensure a more secure financial future.
FAQs
Is $3,716 a single government pension?
No. This is the combined maximum from OAS, CPP, and GIS for those who qualify for all at the highest rates.
Can I get $3,716 if I only worked part of my life in Canada?
It’s unlikely unless you meet full eligibility for CPP and OAS and have low enough income for maximum GIS.
Do I have to apply for all three programs separately?
Yes, but applying for OAS often triggers GIS eligibility if you qualify. CPP must always be applied for separately.