Retirees Could Receive Over $3100 Monthly, Check Your Eligibility and Payment Dates

As costs keep climbing across Canada, many retirees are finding it tougher to make ends meet. The good news? If you’re 65 or older, you could receive over \$3,000 per month by combining three key government benefits: the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).

Together, these programs provide a critical financial lifeline for older Canadians—especially those without private pensions or large retirement savings. With proper planning, it’s possible to maximize these benefits and secure a stable monthly income well into retirement.

Let’s explore how each of these programs works—and how to get the most from them.

The Foundation: Canada Pension Plan (CPP)

The Canada Pension Plan is a contribution-based program, meaning your monthly benefit depends on:

• How many years you contributed
• How much you contributed
• The age you begin receiving payments

You can start CPP as early as age 60 or delay until age 70. The longer you wait, the higher your monthly benefit—up to a 42% increase if you delay until 70. But keep in mind: CPP is taxable income, and it may affect your eligibility for GIS if your total income rises too high.

As of July 2025, the maximum monthly CPP payment at age 65 is \$1,364.60. This amount is only available to those who contributed at or near the annual maximums throughout their working years.

The Core Benefit: Old Age Security (OAS)

Unlike CPP, Old Age Security is not based on contributions, but rather on how long you’ve lived in Canada after the age of 18.

To qualify for OAS:

• You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
• To receive the full amount, you must have lived in Canada for 40 years after age 18

As of July 2025, the maximum OAS payment is \$748.00 per month. Like CPP, it is taxable and counts as income, which may impact GIS eligibility.

OAS can be delayed up to age 70 for an increase of 36% in total monthly payments.

The Game-Changer: Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)

The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is a non-taxable benefit for low-income seniors receiving OAS. Unlike CPP and OAS, it requires no contributions, but is based entirely on income level.

To be eligible:

• You must be receiving OAS
• Your income must fall below a certain threshold
• Your CPP and other income sources affect how much GIS you receive

As of July 2025, the maximum GIS benefit for a single senior is \$1,065.47 per month. This benefit does not count as taxable income, making it an important supplement for those with limited resources.

Combining Benefits: How to Reach \$3,178.07 Per Month

If you qualify for all three programs at maximum levels, here’s what your monthly income could look like in July 2025:

Program	Monthly Max (CAD)	Eligibility Criteria
CPP	\$1,364.60	Full contributions; start at age 65
OAS	\$748.00	40+ years of Canadian residency post-age 18
GIS	\$1,065.47	Low income, receiving OAS
Total	\$3,178.07	Full eligibility + low income

Not every retiree will qualify for this maximum. But with smart planning and income management, you can get closer to it.

How to Maximize Your Retirement Income (Strategic Tips)

Boosting your monthly benefits isn’t just about luck. It’s about making smart decisions on when and how to apply.

1. Delay CPP and OAS

Every year you delay after age 65 adds an extra percentage to your monthly payments. CPP can grow by up to 42%, and OAS by up to 36% if delayed until age 70.

2. Reduce Taxable Income

Since GIS is income-tested, reducing your taxable income (e.g., through RRSP withdrawals before 65 or pension income splitting) can help maintain eligibility.

3. Always File Taxes

Filing a return, even with little or no income, ensures you’re automatically assessed for GIS and other benefits.

4. Use Pension Income Splitting

If you’re married or common-law, income splitting can reduce each partner’s reported income, helping both qualify for GIS.

5. Apply On Time and Stay Informed

Missing application deadlines or rule changes can mean missing out on hundreds or thousands of dollars. Stay updated through Service Canada and the CRA.

Keep an Eye on Policy Changes (Annual Updates Matter)

Every year, the CRA and Service Canada update:

• Income thresholds for GIS
• Maximum payment amounts for CPP and OAS
• Inflation adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index

Failing to stay informed might mean losing benefits you were otherwise entitled to. Make it a habit to check your eligibility annually.

Why These Programs Matter More Than Ever (Retirement in 2025)

With Canada’s cost of living at record highs, government benefits are more than just a safety net—they’re often the main source of income for many seniors.

These programs provide:

• Stability through guaranteed monthly payments
• Support for housing, medical care, and daily expenses
• Security for seniors without workplace pensions or large savings

If you’re nearing retirement or helping a loved one plan theirs, these benefits can be the difference between bare survival and financial stability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much can I receive from CPP in 2025?
A: As of July 2025, the maximum monthly CPP benefit at age 65 is \$1,364.60, depending on your lifetime contributions.

Q2: Is GIS considered taxable income?
A: No. GIS is a non-taxable benefit, which means it doesn’t affect your tax return or increase your tax liability.

Q3: When should I apply for OAS?
A: It’s recommended to apply six months before your 65th birthday. You can delay it up to age 70 for higher payments.

Q4: Can I still receive GIS if I have part-time income?
A: Yes, but GIS is income-tested. If your earnings exceed a certain threshold, your GIS amount may be reduced or eliminated.

Q5: What happens if I delay CPP past age 65?
A: Delaying CPP increases your payment by 0.7% per month, up to a 42% increase if you wait until age 70.