What is Old Age Security?
Old Age Security (OAS) is a monthly payment available to most Canadians age 65 or older.
Do I Qualify?
- You must be 65 years of age or older
- You must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident when approved, or meet residency rules if living abroad
- You generally need at least 10 years of residence in Canada after age 18
- A full pension usually requires 40 years of residence in Canada after age 18
How Much Can I Get?
The maximum monthly amount for January-March 2026 is $742.31 for people aged 65-74 and $816.54 for those aged 75 and older. Partial pensions are based on years of Canadian residence.
How to Apply
Some people are automatically enrolled. Others must apply through My Service Canada Account, by mail, or through Service Canada.
Visit Official Application PageFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need a work history to qualify for OAS?
No. OAS is based on age and residence in Canada, not on employment contributions. That is one of the main differences between OAS and CPP.
Can immigrants get a partial OAS pension?
Yes. Many immigrants qualify for a partial pension based on years of residence in Canada, and international social security agreements can sometimes help.
What is the OAS clawback?
Higher-income seniors can repay part of OAS through the recovery tax when income exceeds the annual threshold.
Related Programs
Check All Your Benefits
See what you qualify for across 22+ federal and Ontario programs
Free Benefits Calculator