Old Age Security is the only major Canadian retirement benefit that is not based on contributions — it is based on years of Canadian residency after age 18. For July–September 2026, the maximum is about $752 per month for ages 65–74 and $827 for 75+, with a further increase scheduled for the October–December quarter.
OAS is adjusted quarterly for inflation (it can rise but never fall with CPI), and a permanent 10% boost at age 75 has applied since July 2022. Full pension requires 40 years of Canadian residency after 18; fewer years means a proportional partial pension.
2026 payment amounts
| Age | Jul–Sep 2026 | Oct–Dec 2026 (est.) |
|---|---|---|
| 65–74 | ~$752 | ~$763 |
| 75+ | ~$827 | ~$839 |
Q4 figures reflect the announced ~1.4% quarterly increase effective October 2026. Amounts assume 2025 net world income below the clawback thresholds and full residency.
The clawback (OAS recovery tax)
High-income seniors repay part of OAS through the recovery tax: for 2026 payments (based on 2025 income), the clawback begins around $152,062 of net world income for ages 65–74 (about $157,923 for 75+), with benefits fully recovered at higher incomes. Pension income splitting, TFSA withdrawals (which do not count as income) and timing RRSP withdrawals can keep you under the line.
Deferring to 70
You can defer OAS up to age 70 for a 0.6% increase per month deferred — 36% more at 70. Deferral makes sense if you are still working (and would face clawback anyway) or do not need the income. GIS recipients should generally not defer — GIS is income-tested and delaying OAS can reduce total benefits.
Residency math: each year of Canadian residence after 18 earns 1/40th of the maximum. Twenty years = exactly half pension. Ten years (20 if living abroad) is the minimum for any OAS.
Frequently asked questions
How much is OAS per month in 2026?
Maximum about $752/month for ages 65–74 and about $827 for 75+ (July–September 2026 rates), rising slightly in the October quarter. Full amount requires 40 years of Canadian residency after age 18.
At what income is OAS clawed back in 2026?
For 2026 payments the recovery tax starts at about $152,062 of 2025 net world income (65–74) and about $157,923 (75+).
Should I defer OAS to age 70?
Deferral adds 0.6% per month (36% at 70). It suits seniors still working or facing clawback; low-income seniors expecting GIS generally should not defer.
Is OAS based on my work history?
No — unlike CPP, OAS depends on Canadian residency after age 18, not contributions or employment. Forty years earns the full pension.
Sources and methodology
- Wealthvieu: OAS & GIS Guide 2026
- Immigration News Canada: CPP and OAS Payments August 2026
- Immigration News Canada: October 2026 OAS Increase
This article provides general information for planning purposes, not professional advice or a quote. Cost figures are NorthPeak planning estimates unless a source is named; confirm current prices with licensed local contractors and professionals before making decisions.