Lately, there’s been a lot of buzz about a $2,250 Old Age Security (OAS) payment heading to Canadian seniors in June 2025. Sounds exciting, right? But before you plan around that number, it’s important to know what it actually means. The reality is that there’s no one-time $2,250 OAS payment. However, some seniors might receive that amount as a total from multiple benefit programs.
Let’s break it down.
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No Bonus
There’s no special $2,250 payment being issued by the federal government. The amount people are referring to comes from a combination of Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and it only applies to low-income seniors who qualify for the maximum benefits under both programs.
Here’s how those numbers stack up for 2025:
2025 Monthly Benefit Rates
| Benefit Type | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| OAS (65–74) | $727.67 |
| OAS (75+) | $800.44 |
| GIS (Single) | Up to $1,086.88 |
| Max Combined Total | Around $2,250 |
So yes, some seniors may receive that much—but not from OAS alone.
OAS Explained
Old Age Security is a monthly pension for Canadians aged 65 or older. It’s based on residency, not employment history. To receive full OAS, you must have lived in Canada for at least 40 years after turning 18. Partial benefits are available with at least 10 years of residency.
Your age matters too. If you’re 75 or older, you receive a higher monthly payment than someone between 65 and 74. However, your OAS is clawed back if your annual income exceeds $79,000, and you’ll get nothing if you earn over $142,000.
What GIS Adds
The Guaranteed Income Supplement is added to OAS for low-income seniors. It’s non-taxable and designed for individuals or couples with little to no income beyond OAS. For singles, the GIS can boost monthly support up to $1,086.88, and sometimes more when provincial programs are factored in.
If you’re married or living with a partner, the amount changes based on whether they receive OAS and how much income you both have.
Is the $2,250 Real?
Yes, but it’s not a bonus. It’s the upper limit of what some low-income seniors can receive monthly when combining:
- Full OAS (for those aged 75+)
- Maximum GIS (if they qualify)
- Additional provincial top-ups
To get close to $2,250, you must meet all these criteria:
- Age 75 or older
- Receive full OAS
- Have little or no other income
- Be eligible for full GIS
- Live in a province that offers additional senior assistance
Most middle-income or higher-income seniors won’t qualify for the full GIS or top-ups, so their monthly total will be lower.
June Changes?
OAS and GIS are adjusted every quarter to keep up with inflation. These changes happen in January, April, July, and October—not in June. So, if you’re expecting a bump in June, you’ll have to wait until July for the next possible cost-of-living adjustment.
Also, if you turn 75 in 2025, your OAS will automatically increase from $727.67 to $800.44 the month after your birthday.
Who Can Receive Maximum?
To get the highest possible combined payment, you must:
- Be at least 65 years old (preferably 75+ for the top rate)
- Have lived in Canada for 10+ years
- Have filed your taxes recently
- Report minimal income aside from OAS
- Be single or in a low-income couple
If you’re receiving other retirement income (like CPP, private pensions, or RRSP withdrawals), your GIS might be reduced or eliminated.
Provincial Help
Some provinces add extra money for seniors:
- Ontario: Offers GAINS to low-income seniors
- British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta: Provide supplemental payments or credits
These payments are automatic if you qualify for GIS and file your taxes. They can push your monthly total beyond $2,250 in some cases.
How to Maximize Benefits
If you want to get the most out of OAS and GIS, here’s what you can do:
- Apply for OAS six months before you turn 65
- Keep your tax returns up to date every year
- Use CRA’s My Account to monitor your benefits
- Report income changes promptly
- Check with your province for extra programs
Doing these things ensures you don’t miss out on what you’re eligible for.
There’s no magical $2,250 OAS payment dropping into all senior bank accounts in June 2025. But for low-income seniors, especially those over 75, a combination of OAS, GIS, and provincial support could bring your monthly benefits to that level.
Take the time to review your financial situation, residency history, and tax filings. You may already qualify—or you might need to take action to get there.
FAQs
Is there a $2,250 OAS payment in June?
No, it’s a combined total of OAS, GIS, and provincial top-ups.
How much is OAS for age 75+ in 2025?
$800.44 per month as of 2025.
Who gets the maximum GIS?
Low-income seniors with little to no other income.
When will OAS increase next?
The next adjustment is expected in July 2025.
Can CPP affect GIS eligibility?
Yes, CPP counts as income and may reduce GIS.
