Canada’s Old Age Security (OAS) program is a cornerstone of retirement income for seniors. Lately, buzz has circulated about a $969 monthly OAS payment, creating both excitement and confusion.
In this article, we’ll cut through the noise with the latest factual details, explain eligibility, deferral bonuses, actual payment levels, and upcoming payment dates..
What Is the $969 OAS Payment?
- The “$969” figure refers to the maximum monthly OAS pension one could receive—only if the recipient delays the start of OAS until age 70, thereby earning a 36% deferral bonus.
- Standard maximum rates (for July–September 2025):
- Ages 65–74: $734.95/month
- Ages 75+: $808.45/month
Eligibility Criteria for OAS
To qualify, you must meet these conditions:
- Be 65 years or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident at approval
- Have lived in Canada at least:
- 10 years since age 18, if residing in Canada, or
- 20 years, if living outside Canada
- Possibility to count Canadian employer time abroad toward residency under certain conditions
Deferral Bonus: How You Could Reach $969
If you wait to start OAS, your monthly benefit increases:
- You may defer up to 60 months (5 years) past your 65th birthday.
- Each deferred month gives a 0.6% boost, capping at 36% total at age 70—which would boost the $734.95 rate to about $999.53/month, though practical figures cited hover near $969
Payment Amounts at a Glance
| Age Group | Standard Monthly OAS | With Maximum Deferral Bonus (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 65–74 | $734.95 | Up to ~$999.53 (if deferred to age 70) |
| 75+ | $808.45 | Higher if deferred, but base auto-increase applies |
- The $808.45 figure reflects a 1.0% inflation adjustment for the July–September 2025 quarter.
OAS Payment Dates in 2025
OAS payments are issued near the end of each month. The schedule for 2025:
- April 28 | May 28 | June 26 | July 29 | August 27 | September 25 | October 29 | November 26 | December 22
Summary Table of Key Facts
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Definition of $969 | Maximum monthly OAS if deferred to age 70 with full deferral bonus. |
| Standard Rates | Ages 65–74: $734.95; Ages 75+: $808.45 (July–Sept 2025) |
| Eligibility | Age 65+, Canadian citizen or legal resident, 10 years Canadian residency (20 if abroad) |
| Deferral Bonus | 0.6% per month deferred, up to 36% (5 years) |
| Payment Dates 2025 | End-of-month dates from April to December, including August 27 |
| Inflation Adjustment | 1.0% increase for July–Sept 2025, quarterly CPI indexing |
The $969 OAS payment isn’t the norm—it’s the maximum reward waiting for seniors who strategically defer their pension until age 70. For most, the standard OAS rates—$734.95 (65–74) or $808.45 (75+)—are the reality.
Payments are adjusted with inflation, and issued each month, typically in late-month batches.
Understanding eligibility, deferral benefits, and the payment schedule ensures you make informed choices about your OAS benefits planning.
FAQs
Does every senior receive $969/month?
No. Only those who delay receiving OAS until age 70—maximizing the 36% deferral bonus—can reach around $969/month. Most receive much less.
What are the usual OAS amounts?
As of July–September 2025:
$734.95/month for ages 65–74
$808.45/month for ages 75+, automatically increased for cost of living
When will I receive my OAS payment?
In 2025, payments are typically issued near month-end: e.g., April 28, July 29, August 27, and December 22