In March 2025, Canadian seniors will see a significant financial boost through the Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) programs.
With a combined payment of up to $1,700 in OAS benefits and an additional $650 in extra help, many retirees will experience much-needed financial relief.
The Canadian government, through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), is set to send double payments to eligible individuals.
This article breaks down the benefits, explains the eligibility criteria, and offers guidance on how seniors can apply for these payments.
Understanding the $1,700 OAS and $650 Extra Help
| Benefit | Age Group | Maximum Monthly Amount (2025) | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Security (OAS) | 65 to 74 | $727.67 | Canadian citizen or legal resident, Resided in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18 |
| 75 and over | $800.44 | Same as above | |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | All ages | Up to $1,086.88 | Receiving OAS, Annual income below specific thresholds |
| Couples Receiving OAS & GIS | Married/Common-law | Up to $654.23 each | Both partners must be receiving OAS and have low income |
What is Old Age Security (OAS)?
The Old Age Security (OAS) program is a government-funded pension designed to provide financial assistance to seniors aged 65 and above. Unlike other pension programs, OAS is not tied to an individual’s previous employment. It is funded by general tax revenues.
Eligibility Criteria for OAS: To qualify for Old Age Security benefits:
- Seniors must be at least 65 years old.
- Must be Canadian citizens or legal residents.
- They must have resided in Canada for at least 10 years after the age of 18. If they live outside Canada, the residency requirement extends to at least 20 years.
Old Age Security Payment Amounts for 2025:
- Ages 65 to 74: Up to $727.67 per month.
- Ages 75 and over: Up to $800.44 per month.
These amounts are adjusted quarterly to align with the cost of living, helping seniors maintain their purchasing power amidst rising living costs.
What is the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)?
The GIS is an additional financial support program for low-income seniors who are already receiving Old Age Security. Unlike OAS, GIS payments are non-taxable and offer essential support to seniors with minimal income.
Eligibility Criteria for GIS: To qualify for GIS, individuals must:
- Be receiving Old Age Security.
- Have an annual income below specific thresholds set by the government.
GIS Payment Amounts for 2025:
- Single, widowed, or divorced seniors: Up to $1,086.88 per month.
- Married or common-law partners (both receiving Old Age Security): Up to $654.23 per month each.
These payments are also adjusted quarterly to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), ensuring that they keep pace with inflation.
Total Monthly Payments for Seniors
Eligible seniors who qualify for both OAS and GIS can receive the following combined monthly amounts:
- A single senior aged 65 to 74 (with no other income): Up to $1,814.55 per month ($727.67 OAS + $1,086.88 GIS).
- A single senior aged 75 and over (with no other income): Up to $1,887.32 per month ($800.44 Old Age Security + $1,086.88 GIS).
These combined payments provide vital financial support to cover essential expenses such as housing, healthcare, and daily living costs.
CRA Double Payments in March 2025
For March 2025, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is expected to issue double payments for OAS and GIS, with the payment date scheduled for March 27, 2025.
This double payment provides additional relief to seniors, ensuring they have sufficient funds to manage their financial needs, especially during the early months of the year.
How to Apply for $1,700 OAS and $650 Extra Help
Applying for Old Age Security:
- Automatic Enrollment: Some seniors are automatically enrolled and will receive a notification from Service Canada.
- Manual Application: If you do not receive a notification, you must apply online through the My Service Canada Account or by submitting a paper application.
Applying for GIS:
- GIS is not automatically applied. Eligible seniors must complete and submit the Application for GIS to Service Canada.
OAS Recovery Tax (Clawback)
Seniors with an annual income exceeding $86,912 in 2025 will be required to repay part of their Old Age Security benefits through the OAS Recovery Tax (clawback).
If income surpasses this threshold, the government will recover part of the OAS payments, reducing the amount received by higher-income retirees.
The $1,700 Old Age Security and $650 Extra Help program will provide essential financial assistance to Canadian seniors in March 2025.
By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process, seniors can maximize these benefits, which will help them cover essential living expenses.
For those affected by income thresholds, the retroactive payments and double payments in March 2025 ensure they receive the financial support they deserve.
FAQs
What is the maximum amount I can receive through OAS and GIS in 2025?
Seniors may receive up to $1,814.55 per month if they are single and aged 65 to 74, or up to $1,887.32 if they are aged 75 and over, combining both Old Age Security and GIS payments.
How can I apply for OAS and GIS benefits?
Seniors can apply for Old Age Security either through automatic enrollment or by submitting a manual application. GIS requires a separate application, which can be completed online or through Service Canada.
What is the Old Age Security Recovery Tax (Clawback)?
Seniors with an income above $86,912 in 2025 will face the OAS Recovery Tax, meaning they will need to repay a portion of their Old Age Security benefits.