The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed that in 2025, eligible seniors will receive an Old Age Security (OAS) payment of $808 per month. This increase is part of the government’s efforts to shield pensioners from inflation and rising living costs.
The good news: no new application is needed — those already enrolled in OAS will automatically receive the higher amount if they meet eligibility criteria.
Here’s everything you need to know about the $808 OAS boost, who qualifies, when deposits will arrive, and how to check your status.
Who Qualifies for the $808 OAS Payment?
To receive the monthly $808 OAS payment in 2025, seniors must meet certain criteria:
- Be 65 years or older
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18
- Meet income and residency rules — the CRA calculates the exact amount by combining your years of residence and your annual income
- Those receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) may get additional top-ups
Even Canadians living abroad may qualify for a partial OAS benefit, depending on how long they resided in Canada during their working years.
No new application is necessary — OAS members who already meet the rules will see the change reflected automatically.
OAS Payment Schedule and CRA Deposit Dates (2025)
| Month (2025) | Expected Deposit Date | Payment Type | Notes / Adjustments |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | January 29 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Regular indexation applied |
| February | February 26 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Inflation adjustment continues |
| March | March 27 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Payment before fiscal closing |
| April | April 29 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Based on new fiscal rates |
| May | May 29 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Indexed to CPI increase |
| June | June 26 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Possible mid-year review |
| July | July 29 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Summer quarter adjustment |
| August | August 28 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Regular inflation alignment |
| September | September 26 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Inflation index update due |
| October | October 29 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Latest confirmed CRA date |
| November | November 27 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Annual tax update reflection |
| December | December 22 | Monthly OAS + GIS | Year-end deposit (before holidays) |
Payments are typically issued on the last Wednesday of each month, and seniors enrolled in direct deposit will receive funds faster than those receiving mailed cheques.v
How to Check Your OAS Status & CRA Updates
Here are the steps to confirm your OAS payments and ensure everything is in order:
- Log in to CRA MyAccount
— You can view payment history, upcoming deposit dates, and total credited amounts. - Ensure your banking information is current
— If your bank account or address has changed, update it promptly to avoid misdirected payments. - Contact Service Canada or CRA helplines
— If you believe your payment is delayed or missing, their support teams can assist with verification and troubleshooting. - Watch for official alerts and notices
— The CRA may issue announcements, so keep an eye on correspondence through the portal rather than relying exclusively on mailed letters.
With these tools in hand, you can stay informed and ensure your $808 monthly OAS payments continue seamlessly throughout 2025.
What This OAS Increase Means for Seniors
- More financial stability: The boost helps seniors manage rising costs for essentials like groceries, utilities, and healthcare.
- Automatic adjustment: Since no new action is needed, qualifying seniors will see the benefit without extra paperwork.
- Cost-of-living protection: Quarterly adjustments tied to inflation help maintain the purchasing power of the pension.
It’s a meaningful update that underscores the government’s commitment to supporting retirees during challenging economic times.
The $808 monthly OAS payment for 2025 marks a significant upgrade to senior benefits in Canada. Seniors who meet eligibility will receive the new amount automatically, with CRA deposit dates typically at the end of each month.
To get the most from this boost, confirm your banking details, monitor your CRA MyAccount, and prepare for quarterly inflation adjustments. For many, this higher OAS can provide much-needed relief in an era of steadily increasing living costs.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $808 OAS payment?
No. If you already receive OAS and meet eligibility criteria, the increase is automatic.
When will I receive my OAS payment?
Payments are made monthly, often in the last week of each month, with October 2025’s deposit expected around October 29.
Will this increase affect my GIS or other benefits?
Generally no — the OAS boost should not disqualify you from GIS or other benefits, though always verify rules in your province.