Old Age Security (OAS) 2026: Amounts, Eligibility and How to Apply
Old Age Security is a monthly pension for people 65 and older who have lived in Canada at least 10 years after age 18. For October to December 2026 the maximum is $762.50 a month at 65 to 74 and $838.75 at 75 and over. Most people are enrolled automatically.
Free tool: OAS and GIS Estimator 2026: Estimate Your Old Age Security
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How much OAS pays
| Age | Maximum OAS per month | No OAS if 2025 net income is |
|---|---|---|
| 65 to 74 | $762.50 | $152,062 or more |
| 75 and over | $838.75 | $157,923 or more |
Amounts for October to December 2026, for a full pension (40 years in Canada after age 18).
You don't need to have worked to get OAS. The amount depends on three things:
- How long you lived in Canada after age 18. 40 years gets the full pension; 10 to 39 years gets a partial pension.
- When you start. Each month you delay past 65 adds 0.6%, up to 36% at 70.
- Your income. Above $93,454 (2025 net income), part of OAS is paid back through the OAS clawback.
Who qualifies
- You are 65 or older.
- Living in Canada: you are a citizen or legal resident and lived here at least 10 years after 18.
- Living abroad: you lived in Canada at least 20 years after 18.
Full details: OAS eligibility.
Do you need to apply?
Usually not. Service Canada sends an enrolment letter around your 64th birthday if it has your information. If you haven't heard anything a month after you turn 64, contact Service Canada. See how to apply for OAS.
Extra help for lower incomes
- Guaranteed Income Supplement: up to $1,138.90 a month on top of OAS, tax-free.
- Allowance: for 60 to 64 year olds whose spouse gets GIS.
- Allowance for the Survivor: for widowed people aged 60 to 64.
Payments and taxes
OAS is paid monthly, near the end of the month. The next payment is November 26, 2026. See all CPP and OAS payment dates.
OAS is taxable income. If you live in Canada, tax isn't taken off automatically. You can ask Service Canada to deduct tax each month.
Amounts go up every January, April, July and October with the cost of living. They never go down.
Phone numbers
CPP and OAS (also Personal Access Codes for returning CPP/OAS clients)
1-800-277-9914Agents: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm local time. Automated: 24/7.
From outside Canada and the U.S.: 1-613-957-1954 (collect, Eastern time)
TTY: 1-800-255-4786
Related
Frequently asked questions
How much is OAS per month in 2026?
For October to December 2026, up to $762.50 a month for ages 65 to 74 and up to $838.75 for 75 and over.
Is OAS based on how much I worked?
No. OAS depends on your age, how long you have lived in Canada after 18, and your income. Your work history matters for the Canada Pension Plan, not OAS.
Do I have to file taxes to get OAS?
Yes. Service Canada uses your tax return each year to review your OAS. File by April 30 to avoid interruptions.
Is OAS the same as CPP?
No. CPP is based on contributions from your work. OAS is based on age and residence. Most retirees get both.
Sources
- Old Age Security payment amounts (canada.ca, 2026-09-29) (canada.ca)
- OAS: do you qualify (canada.ca, 2026-10-01) (canada.ca)
- OAS: how much you could receive (canada.ca, 2026-10-13) (canada.ca)
- OAS: receiving your pension (canada.ca)
North Help Desk is an independent guide, not a government website. Rules, amounts and phone hours can change; always confirm on the official page before you act. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.