← Browse benefitsOfficial government page ↗
Federal (Canada)Seniors
Old Age Security
A monthly pension for most people aged 65 and older who have lived in Canada for at least 10 years. It is based on residence, not on work history.
Estimated value
Up to $751.97/month (age 65-74) or $827.17/month (75+)
Who qualifies
- You must be 65 or older and have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18 (20 years to receive it outside Canada).
- Full OAS needs 40 years of residence after 18; fewer years give a partial pension.
How to apply
- 1
Check if you were enrolled automatically
Many people are enrolled automatically. Service Canada sends a letter. If you did not get one, you need to apply.
- 2
Apply through Service Canada
Apply online through My Service Canada Account or on paper, ideally 6 months before you want payments to start.
Go to application ↗
Documents you will need
- Social Insurance Number
- Banking information for direct deposit
Processing time
Varies
How often it is paid
Monthly
Good to know
- Higher-income seniors repay part of OAS (the 'recovery tax') starting around $90,997 of net income.
- Delaying OAS past 65 (up to 70) increases it by 0.6% per month.
- At 75 the pension automatically increases by 10%.
Often applied for together
Last verified: September 1, 2026