Seniors in Canada are eligible for various government benefits that provide financial support, healthcare coverage, and other perks:
Old Age Security (OAS)
The OAS pension is available to seniors aged 65 and older who meet residency requirements. It provides monthly payments regardless of work history; however, high-income seniors may be subject to a clawback through the OAS recovery tax.
If you meet the requirements, you can receive the OAS pension even while living outside of Canada.
Service Canada will issue a T4A(OAS) slip, which reports the pension received and any taxes withheld during the year.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) or Quebec Pension Plan (QPP)
Seniors who contributed to the CPP or QPP during their working years can receive monthly payments. Benefits can begin as early as age 60, with adjustments based on when payments start.
If you meet the requirements, you can receive CPP or QPP payments even while living outside of Canada.
Service Canada will issue a T4A(P) slip, which reports the pension received and any taxes withheld during the year.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
Low-income seniors who qualify for OAS may also receive GIS—a non-taxable benefit that provides additional financial support.
GIS payments may be reduced by employment income, but certain exemptions apply.
GIS is only available to Canadian residents and cannot be received while living outside of Canada.
GIS benefits are reported on the T4A(OAS) slip.
Provincial and Territorial Benefits
Provinces and territories offer additional programs, such as property tax relief, utility discounts, and enhanced health benefits for seniors. Eligibility and benefits vary depending on the province or territory.
How to Apply for CPP and OAS Benefits While Working
Applying for CPP Benefits
Check Eligibility: You must be at least 60 years old and have contributed to CPP.
Apply Online or by Mail: Use your My Service Canada Account to apply online. Alternatively, complete the CPP Retirement Pension Application (ISP1000) and mail it to Service Canada.
Post-Retirement Contributions: If you continue working after starting CPP, your contributions may increase your future pension benefits.
Applying for OAS Benefits
Eligibility Requirements: You must be 65 years or older and meet residency criteria.
Automatic Enrollment: Some seniors are automatically enrolled. If not, you can apply online through My Service Canada Account or by completing the OAS Application (ISP3000) and mailing it to Service Canada.
Working While Receiving OAS: You can receive OAS while working. However, high-income earners may be subject to the OAS recovery tax.
