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Federal (Canada)Seniors
CPP Retirement Pension
A monthly pension you earned by paying into the Canada Pension Plan while working. You can start it as early as 60 or as late as 70.
Estimated value
Up to $1,507.65/month (2026); average about $877.01/month for new pensioners
Who qualifies
- You must have made at least one valid CPP contribution from work in Canada.
- You can start as early as 60 (reduced 0.6% per month early) or as late as 70 (increased 0.7% per month after 65).
How to apply
- 1
Check your CPP statement of contributions
Sign in to My Service Canada Account to see your estimated pension at different ages.
- 2
Apply about 6 months ahead
CPP is not automatic — you must apply. Apply online or on paper, ideally 6 months before you want it to start.
Go to application ↗
Documents you will need
- Social Insurance Number
- Banking information for direct deposit
Processing time
Usually within 4 months
How often it is paid
Monthly
Good to know
- Waiting longer means a larger monthly pension for life — worth considering if you have other income.
- CPP is separate from OAS; you can receive both. It is taxable income.
Often applied for together
Last verified: September 1, 2026