For many Canadian seniors, Old Age Security (OAS) plays a big role in making ends meet during retirement. So when posts began popping up online about a $969 OAS pension in July 2025, it stirred a lot of confusion.
Is this a new government payout for everyone? Has the CRA announced a major OAS hike? The short answer: not exactly. That $969 figure isn’t a universal upgrade—it’s actually the result of smart planning and a modest inflation bump.
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Update
First things first: the $969 per month OAS isn’t a new base payment from the CRA or Service Canada. It’s not a one-time bonus either. Instead, that amount is the outcome of two things:
- A 1% inflation adjustment effective July 2025.
- A deferral bonus that applies to those who delay their OAS until age 70.
If you’re thinking everyone is suddenly getting a fat raise, that’s not how it works.
Breakdown
Let’s simplify this with numbers. The max OAS payment is based on age, deferral, and inflation.
| Scenario | Base OAS (July 2025) | Deferral Bonus | Final Monthly OAS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age 65–74 | $734.94 | None | $734.94 |
| Age 75+ | $808.44 | None | $808.44 |
| Deferred to Age 70 | $734.94 | +36% | $999.52 |
| Deferred to Age 69 | $734.94 | +29.4% | $950.61 |
So yes—you can get around $969 or more, but only if you’ve delayed collecting OAS.
Reality
To clear up any misunderstandings, here’s the bottom line: CRA didn’t boost the OAS to $969 for everyone.
Instead:
- OAS gets adjusted quarterly based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). In July 2025, this meant a 1% rise.
- Delaying OAS after age 65 earns you a 0.6% monthly bonus, maxing out at 36% at age 70.
Combine the two, and seniors who deferred to 69 or 70 can hit or exceed $969 monthly. But if you took OAS at 65, you’ll stay closer to the $734.94 level.
Eligibility
Here’s what it takes to receive regular or enhanced OAS:
Basic OAS Eligibility:
- Be 65 years or older
- Have lived in Canada for 10+ years since age 18
- Meet income and legal residency requirements
$969 OAS Eligibility:
- Meet the basic requirements above
- Deferred OAS to age 69 or 70
- Eligible for maximum base and full deferral bonus
Most people won’t see $969 unless they waited to apply.
Deposit
OAS payments follow a fixed schedule from the CRA. That doesn’t change just because your amount does. So whether you’re getting $734 or $969, the next payment date is July 29, 2025.
Factcheck
The buzz around a “$969 OAS Pension” is rooted in truth—but it’s not a new standard. It’s the result of deferring OAS until 69 or 70, combined with a 1% inflation bump. That’s how some recipients are seeing numbers close to $969 or even more. But there is no universal $969 payment for all seniors.
So, if you want that higher OAS figure, you’ll need to wait a few extra years. Otherwise, stick with the base rates and plan accordingly.
FAQs
Is $969 the new OAS base?
No, it’s not. It’s a maxed-out amount with deferral and inflation.
Who qualifies for $969 OAS?
Only seniors who defer OAS to 69 or 70 years of age.
When is the July 2025 OAS payment?
OAS payments will be deposited on July 29, 2025.
What is the base OAS in July 2025?
$734.94/month for 65–74 and $808.44 for 75+.
How much is the deferral bonus?
0.6% per month, up to 36% at age 70.
