CRA Confirms CPP & OAS Payments Up to $2,700: In April 2025, eligible Canadian seniors could receive up to $2,700 in combined Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) payments, according to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Service Canada. These payments continue to serve as critical support for retirees trying to manage the growing financial demands of daily life, including rent, food, transportation, and healthcare.
The increase in payments reflects adjustments made through the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks inflation to ensure seniors maintain their purchasing power. While $2,700 represents the maximum potential payment, actual benefit amounts vary depending on your personal contribution history, age, income level, and eligibility for supplemental programs such as the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
Whether you’re nearing retirement, assisting an aging parent, or already receiving these benefits, understanding how CPP and OAS work, how to apply, and what you may be entitled to is essential. This in-depth guide offers the full breakdown of the April 2025 payment update, eligibility details, tips to maximize your benefits, and links to trustworthy government resources.
CRA Confirms CPP & OAS Payments Up to $2,700
| Benefit Program | Maximum Monthly Amount (April 2025) |
|---|---|
| Old Age Security (OAS) (ages 65–74) | $727.67 |
| OAS (75 and older) | $800.44 |
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | $1,433.00 |
| Combined Maximum (CPP + OAS) | Up to $2,233.44/month |
| Potential Additional GIS | Up to ~$500+ for low-income recipients |
| Payment Date (April) | April 28, 2025 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Age, residency, contribution history, income level |
| Official Info | OAS Payments – Canada.ca |
In April 2025, thousands of Canadian seniors will receive valuable support through CPP and OAS payments—potentially totaling up to $2,700 or more, especially when GIS and Allowances are included. These monthly payments can make a real difference in covering everyday living expenses.
To ensure you receive everything you’re entitled to:
- Understand eligibility rules
- Apply early
- Keep your information updated
- Explore all supplemental benefits
- Use official CRA and Service Canada portals for accurate guidance
Being proactive with your retirement benefits today will help you retire with peace of mind tomorrow.
What Are CPP and OAS?
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) are Canada’s two foundational public pension programs, created to provide financial stability and dignity to Canadian seniors. They differ in how they’re funded and what factors determine eligibility and payment amounts.
What Is the Canada Pension Plan (CPP)?
- CPP is a contribution-based retirement benefit.
- Canadians contribute to CPP during their working years through payroll deductions.
- Your monthly CPP payment depends on your total contributions and how long you contributed.
- CPP benefits can start as early as age 60, but starting at age 65 or later increases your monthly amount.
- You can continue to work while receiving CPP, and may qualify for Post-Retirement Benefits (PRBs).
What Is Old Age Security (OAS)?
- OAS is a non-contributory, tax-funded benefit.
- Available to Canadians 65 and older who have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since turning 18.
- Unlike CPP, it’s not based on employment history or previous income.
- Seniors with low income may also qualify for additional support through the GIS, Allowance, or Allowance for the Survivor.
Even if you’ve never worked or contributed to CPP, you may still receive OAS if you meet residency criteria.
April 2025 CPP and OAS Payment Dates
The CRA and Service Canada have confirmed that CPP and OAS payments for April 2025 will be issued on April 28, 2025. This payment will be deposited directly into your bank account if you’ve enrolled in direct deposit. Those still receiving paper cheques may experience a slight delay, especially around holidays or weekends.
Want faster payments? Sign up for direct deposit using CRA My Account or My Service Canada Account.
How Much Can You Receive in April 2025?
The maximum combined amount for April 2025 is $2,233.44/month, based on the top tier for both CPP and OAS. However, when you factor in GIS and other supplements, certain low-income seniors could receive over $2,700.
Breakdown by Age:
| Age Group | CPP Max | OAS Max | GIS (If Eligible) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 65–74 | $1,433.00 | $727.67 | ~$500+ | $2,660+ |
| 75+ | $1,433.00 | $800.44 | ~$500+ | $2,733+ |
Your actual monthly total depends on your unique situation:
- Your CPP contributions
- Whether you’re 75 or older
- Whether your income qualifies you for GIS or other top-ups
- Whether you have dependents or a spouse also receiving benefits
Eligibility Criteria for OAS and CPP
OAS Eligibility:
You may qualify for Old Age Security if:
- You’re 65 years of age or older
- You are a Canadian citizen or legal resident at the time of approval
- You have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
- For full OAS: You must have lived in Canada for 40+ years after age 18
Partial OAS is available for those with 10–39 years of residency, calculated proportionally.
CPP Eligibility:
You may be eligible for CPP if:
- You’ve made at least one valid CPP contribution through employment or self-employment
- You are 60 years or older and have applied for benefits
- Contributions were made while working in Canada or while receiving certain benefits (e.g., parental leave)
CPP is not automatic—you must apply. OAS may be automatically enrolled, but it’s best to confirm.
CRA Confirms CPP & OAS Payments Up to $2,700 Apply for OAS and CPP
Applying is straightforward, but it’s important to give yourself enough time—processing can take several months.
Applying for OAS:
- Log into My Service Canada Account
- Choose Old Age Security from the menu
- Follow the steps to submit your application online
- Alternatively, download a paper application form and mail it in
Applying for CPP:
- Visit My Service Canada Account
- Select Apply for CPP Retirement Pension
- Enter your details and select your start date
- Submit your application and monitor its status online
Apply at least 6 months before your desired payment start date to avoid delays.
Real-Life Example: John and Susan
John, 68, worked as a construction manager and consistently contributed to CPP throughout his 40-year career. He now receives:
- CPP: $1,300/month
- OAS: $727.67 (under age 75)
- Total: $2,027.67/month
Susan, 76, spent most of her adult life as a part-time caregiver and homemaker. Her contributions to CPP were limited. She receives:
- CPP: $680/month
- OAS: $800.44 (over age 75)
- GIS: $500/month
- Total: $1,980.44/month
Together, their combined household income is over $4,000/month, which helps them afford rent, medication, utilities, and food.
Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
- Delay Receiving Benefits: Each year you delay CPP (after 65) increases payments by ~8.4%; OAS by 7.2%.
- Apply Early: Don’t wait until you’re 65+—begin preparing at least 6 months prior.
- Review Supplement Eligibility: Apply for GIS, Allowance, or Survivor’s Allowance if eligible.
- Set Up CRA & Service Canada Accounts: Monitor your benefits and get real-time updates.
- Use Retirement Planning Tools: Try the CPP Calculator and OAS Estimator.
- Track Tax Impacts: High-income seniors may owe an OAS recovery tax. Stay under thresholds if possible.
FAQs On CRA Confirms CPP & OAS Payments Up to $2,700
Q1: Will everyone get $2,700 in April 2025?
A: No. The maximum amount reflects full CPP, OAS (for those 75+), and GIS. Most recipients get less depending on their work history and income level.
Q2: What day will the April payments be issued?
A: April 28, 2025. Direct deposit recipients typically get funds that day; mailed cheques may take longer.
Q3: Is OAS taxable?
A: Yes. OAS is considered taxable income. Seniors with net incomes above ~$90,000 may face a recovery tax.
Q4: Can I collect both CPP and OAS?
A: Yes. They are separate programs and most retirees qualify for both.
Q5: What happens if I start CPP early at 60?
A: Your payment is reduced permanently by 0.6% per month (7.2% per year) for each month before age 65.
