Canadian seniors are set to receive their next round of Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) payments on September 25, 2025. These benefits are vital for retirees, providing monthly financial support to help cover daily expenses like groceries, utilities, and housing.
For this payment cycle, eligible seniors can receive up to $808 through OAS and $1,097 through GIS, adding up to a total of $1,905 for those qualifying for both.
This article explains everything seniors need to know about the September payments — including eligibility rules, payment amounts, dates, and important tips to ensure timely deposits.
OAS and GIS Payment Overview
| Benefit | Maximum Monthly Amount | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age Security (OAS) | $808 | Age 65+, Canadian citizen or legal resident, 10+ years residency after age 18 |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | $1,097 | Low-income seniors who already receive OAS |
These two benefits together can bring in $1,905 per month for seniors who meet the full eligibility requirements, especially those with lower incomes and no other major sources of income.
Understanding the Payments
Old Age Security (OAS)
OAS is a monthly pension paid to eligible Canadians aged 65 or older. It’s designed to provide a base income in retirement.
The amount is indexed to inflation and adjusted quarterly. Seniors aged 75 and older generally receive a slightly higher payment compared to those aged 65 to 74.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
GIS is an additional, non-taxable monthly payment for low-income seniors who already receive OAS. The amount depends on the recipient’s marital status and previous year’s income.
Those with the lowest incomes receive the highest GIS amount. As income rises, GIS payments gradually decrease until they phase out completely.
Eligibility Requirements
OAS Eligibility
To qualify for OAS, you must:
- Be 65 years or older.
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident at the time of application.
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18 (40 years for the full amount).
GIS Eligibility
To qualify for GIS, you must:
- Already be receiving OAS.
- Have low annual income, based on your previous year’s tax return.
- Meet specific income thresholds depending on your marital status and whether your spouse or partner receives OAS.
Seniors with higher household incomes will receive a reduced GIS amount or may not qualify at all, while those with lower incomes may receive the maximum benefit.
Payment Date and Delivery
The next OAS and GIS payment is scheduled for September 25, 2025.
Key points to note:
- Payments are made monthly, typically on the last business day of the month.
- Direct deposit ensures you receive funds on the payment date itself.
- Cheque payments may arrive several days later depending on mail delivery times.
To avoid delays, seniors are encouraged to enroll in direct deposit.
How Amounts Are Calculated
- OAS payments are based on how long you have lived in Canada after turning 18. Seniors with at least 40 years of residency usually receive the full amount.
- GIS payments are based on your income from the previous year, your marital status, and whether your spouse or partner receives OAS.
- As your income increases, your GIS payment is gradually reduced. Seniors with very low incomes can receive the maximum GIS of $1,097 along with their OAS.
Additional Tips for Seniors
- File your taxes on time every year: GIS eligibility is automatically assessed based on your income from your tax return.
- Use your My Service Canada Account: This allows you to track payments, update banking details, and verify eligibility.
- Combine with other benefits: Many provinces offer top-up programs, and you may also be eligible for GST/HST credits or other federal and provincial support programs.
The OAS and GIS programs are essential supports for Canadian seniors, helping them maintain financial stability in retirement. With payments of $808 in OAS and $1,097 in GIS scheduled for September 25, 2025, eligible seniors could receive a combined $1,905.
By keeping your tax filings current, updating your personal information, and choosing direct deposit, you can ensure your payments arrive on time and in full — giving you peace of mind and steady income during your retirement years.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for GIS if I already get OAS?
Yes, GIS is not automatic. You must apply for it and meet the income requirements.
Is GIS considered taxable income?
No, GIS is a non-taxable benefit, so it won’t affect your taxable income.
When will I receive my OAS and GIS payment in September?
Payments will be issued on September 25, 2025, by direct deposit or cheque.