If you’re planning for retirement or already receiving benefits in Canada, you may have heard about the new $3,716 monthly pension figure.
While it’s not a single cheque or standalone program, it’s a realistic total when combining three major federal benefits: Old Age Security (OAS), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
In 2025, qualifying seniors could receive up to $3,716 per month by maximizing these available programs. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, payment amounts, and when your payments begin.
What Is the $3,716 Monthly Pension?
The widely discussed $3,716 monthly pension is not a new government program but rather the combined maximum of three key retirement supports:
- OAS – A monthly payment to seniors 65+
- CPP – A contributory retirement benefit based on work history
- GIS – A non-taxable supplement for low-income seniors
Together, if you qualify for each at its maximum rate, your monthly income could reach or even exceed $3,716 in 2025.
Pension Breakdown: OAS + CPP + GIS
| Program | Maximum Monthly Amount (2025) |
|---|---|
| Old Age Security (OAS) (age 75+) | $800.44 |
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | $1,433.00 |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | $1,086.88 |
| Total | $3,320.32 |
| Provincial Top-ups (varies) | Up to ~$395.68 |
| Grand Total | ≈ $3,716/month |
Eligibility for Each Benefit
Old Age Security (OAS)
To qualify:
- You must be 65 or older
- Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18 (or 20 years if living abroad)
- Benefit amount increases if you defer past age 65, up to 36% more at age 70
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
To qualify:
- You must have made contributions during your working years
- You can begin collecting at age 60, but delaying until 70 increases your payout by up to 42%
- Maximum monthly CPP in 2025 is $1,433, but most people receive less unless they had high and consistent earnings
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
To qualify:
- You must be receiving OAS
- Must have low or no income apart from OAS
- Maximum GIS for a single person in 2025 is $1,086.88
- GIS is non-taxable and recalculated each year based on your previous income
How to Apply
Step-by-step Application Process:
- Check eligibility – Review your age, income, residency, and work history
- Gather required documents – Social Insurance Number (SIN), banking details, and prior tax returns
- Apply online or by mail – Use your My Service Canada Account for fast, secure processing
- Track your application – Most applications are processed within 6 to 8 weeks
- Enroll in direct deposit – To receive your payments faster and securely
Tip: File your taxes every year—even if you have no income—to ensure you remain eligible for GIS.
Pension Payment Dates in 2025
Here are the confirmed monthly pension payment dates for 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | January 29 |
| February | February 26 |
| March | March 27 |
| April | April 28 |
| May | May 28 |
| June | June 26 |
| July | July 29 |
| August | August 27 |
| September | September 25 |
| October | October 29 |
| November | November 26 |
| December | December 22 |
Ensure your bank details are up to date to receive payments on time.
How to Maximize Your Monthly Pension
Want to get closer to that $3,716/month?
- Delay CPP and OAS: CPP increases by 8.4% per year, OAS by 7.2% per year (up to 36% at age 70)
- Use TFSA over RRSP withdrawals: TFSA withdrawals don’t count as income and won’t affect GIS
- Keep income below clawback thresholds: OAS begins to reduce if your annual income exceeds ~$86,912
- Apply early: You can apply for OAS up to 11 months before your 65th birthday
- Claim all applicable top-ups: Many provinces offer additional housing or energy supplements
Real-Life Example
Let’s say Helen, a 76-year-old single retiree, has no private savings and lives modestly. She qualifies for:
- OAS: $800.44
- CPP: $1,433.00
- GIS: $1,086.88
- Provincial benefit: $395.68
- Total monthly pension: $3,716
Helen has no employment income and receives all benefits through direct deposit—helping her cover rent, food, medications, and modest personal expenses.
The $3,716 monthly pension is very real—but it’s the maximum total you can receive if you’re eligible for OAS, CPP, and GIS, plus provincial supplements.
Not every senior qualifies for the full amount, but by understanding your eligibility, applying on time, and making strategic financial decisions, you can significantly boost your monthly retirement income.
This is your retirement, and every dollar counts. Maximize what’s available, stay informed, and take steps today to secure your financial comfort for tomorrow.
FAQs
Will I automatically receive $3,716 each month once I turn 65?
No. This total reflects maximum combined benefits for low-income seniors over 75. You must qualify for each program separately.
Are these payments taxable?
OAS and CPP are taxable. GIS is non-taxable and does not affect your income tax calculations.
How can I get the full GIS amount?
To qualify for the maximum GIS, your annual income (excluding OAS) must be below approximately $22,000 as a single individual.