When the sources of income dry up in old age, government pensions and assistance become a big support. For the elderly living in Canada, the Old Age Security (OAS) pension is one such important help, which helps them to meet their old age needs.
In March 2025, millions of eligible seniors will receive a direct OAS deposit of $1,546. It consists of two parts – the basic pension of OAS and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for those in need. In this article, we will know who is eligible for this payment, when the money will come, how to apply, and what things to keep in mind.
OAS and GIS – What are these benefits?
OAS (Old Age Security) is a pension provided by the Government of Canada, which is available to people aged 65 years or above. This pension is available to all Canadians who have resided in Canada for a certain period of time – there is no need to work for this, as is the case with the CPP (Canada Pension Plan).
On the other hand, GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement) is an additional aid given to elderly people whose income is very low. GIS helps those who are receiving OAS but their other income is not enough to make ends meet.
Full details of the March 2025 OAS payment
The OAS payment due in March this year is as follows:
Facility information
- OAS amount (for those aged 65-74): $727.67 per month
- OAS amount (75 years and above): $800.44 per month
- Maximum total payment (including GIS): $1,546 per month
- GIS amount: varies based on income and marital status
- Payment date: March 27, 2025
- Official source: Services Canada (Canada.ca)
That is, if you are eligible for both OAS and GIS, you can get around $1,546 every month. This money will be deposited directly into your bank account, provided you have registered for direct deposit.
Eligibility rules – are you eligible for this benefit?
There are a few eligibility requirements to receive this payment:
1. Age eligibility
- You must be at least 65 years old to receive OAS.
- If you are 75 or older, you receive a slightly higher amount ($800.44).
2. Citizenship and residency
- You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18.
- To receive the full OAS, you must have lived in Canada for 40 years after turning 18.
3. Income eligibility (for GIS)
GIS is only available to people whose annual income is below certain limits:
Single individuals:
- Annual income must be less than $21,624
Couples:
- Both receiving OAS: Combined income less than $28,560
- One receiving OAS, the other not: Income less than $51,840
If you meet these conditions, you will also be eligible for GIS, which can bring the total payment up to $1,546.
When will you receive payments?
Eligible citizens will receive this OAS payment on March 27, 2025. Those enrolled for direct deposit will receive the amount directly in their bank account.
If you chose a paper cheque, it may take a few days to arrive.
Tip: If you don’t receive your payment on the due date, wait a few business days and then contact Service Canada.
How to apply for OAS and GIS?
Most seniors are automatically enrolled for OAS. But if you haven’t received a notification or need to apply for GIS, follow the steps below:
Application process:
- Confirm eligibility – Check the age, citizenship and income requirements above.
- Gather documents – such as SIN (Social Insurance Number), proof of age, income documents.
Submit the application:
- Online: Apply from My Service Canada Account
- In person: Visit your nearest Service Canada Centre
Processing and approval:
- The application will be reviewed and you will receive a confirmation letter.
Read more: Federal $1,200 Relief Payments in 2025 – Direct Deposit Dates and Full Breakdown
How to make the most of OAS and GIS?
If you want to get the full benefit of OAS and GIS, keep these things in mind:
- Limit income: If you want to receive GIS, make sure your annual income does not exceed the set limit.
- Apply for all benefits: Provincial subsidies – electricity, gas, bus and train fare discounts.
- Check your My Service Canada Account regularly – it contains information, correspondence and updates on your benefits.
Let’s take an example:
Let’s say Mr. Sharma is 68 years old and lives alone. His annual income is $20,000. He is a Canadian citizen and has lived here for 30 years.
- He will receive $727.67 in OAS each month
- Because of his low income, he is also eligible for GIS
- The total amount combined with GIS can be around $1,546 per month
This amount can be very helpful for his rent, medicines, food, and other essential expenses.
Important questions and answers (FAQs)
Q1: How much OAS will seniors aged 75 years and above receive?
Answer: They will receive $800.44 per month in OAS, GIS separately.
Q2: How to apply for OAS and GIS?
Answer: Online (My Service Canada Account) or by visiting your nearest Service Canada centre.
Q3: When will the March 2025 payment arrive?
Answer: Direct deposit will be made on March 27, 2025.
Conclusion
The $1,546 OAS payment in March 2025 is a very important aid for seniors who have limited income. If you are 65 years or older, and have lived in Canada long enough, you can apply for the OAS.
OAS and GIS can be your financial support.
To make full use of this benefit:
- Understand all the eligibility conditions
- Apply on time
- Keep your accounts and documents updated
- And most importantly – keep getting updates from the government website or the nearest service center
