Old Age Security is the monthly federal pension paid from age 65 to Canadians who meet its residence requirements, whether or not they ever worked.
For October to December 2026, the maximum is C$762.50 a month at 65 to 74 and C$838.75 at 75 and over. The higher figure reflects an automatic 10% increase the month after you turn 75. Payment amounts are reviewed every quarter.
A full pension generally takes 40 years of living in Canada after age 18. With fewer, you get a partial pension worked out as your years divided by 40, provided you have at least 10 years if you live in Canada, or 20 if you live abroad.
You can delay OAS by up to 60 months. Each month adds 0.6%, up to 36% more at 70. Retirees with higher incomes repay some or all of it through the OAS recovery tax, known as the clawback.
Sources
Related terms
Looking for an advisor? Browse fee-only advisors by location or specialty.