Canadian seniors may receive a substantial direct deposit of up to $3,247 from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in May 2025.
This total combines payments from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
These benefits are designed to provide financial support to seniors, especially those with low incomes.
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May 2025 Payment Schedule
The CRA has scheduled the May 2025 payments for May 28, 2025.
Seniors who have enrolled in direct deposit can expect the funds to be available in their bank accounts on this date.
Those receiving cheques may experience slight delays due to mailing times.
Breakdown of May 2025 Payments
1. Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
The CPP provides retirement income based on contributions made during one’s working years.
As of January 2025, the maximum monthly CPP retirement pension for individuals starting at age 65 is $1,433.00.
The actual amount received depends on factors such as the individual’s earnings history and the age at which they begin receiving the pension.
2. Old Age Security (OAS)
OAS is a monthly payment available to seniors aged 65 and older who meet Canadian legal status and residence requirements.
As of January 2025, the maximum monthly OAS amounts are:
- $727.67 for seniors aged 65 to 74
- $800.44 for seniors aged 75 and over
These amounts are subject to income thresholds, and higher-income seniors may see reductions due to the OAS Recovery Tax.
3. Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
The GIS provides additional support to low-income seniors receiving OAS.
The maximum monthly GIS amounts as of January 2025 are:
- $1,086.88 for single, widowed, or divorced seniors with annual incomes below $22,056
- $654.23 for each spouse in a couple where both receive OAS and have a combined annual income below $29,136
The actual GIS amount decreases as income increases and is non-taxable.
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Example Scenarios
Scenario 1: Single Senior Aged 75+
- CPP: $1,433.00
- OAS: $800.44
- GIS: $1,086.88
- Total: $3,320.32
Scenario 2: Single Senior Aged 65–74
- CPP: $1,433.00
- OAS: $727.67
- GIS: $1,086.88
- Total: $3,247.55
These scenarios assume maximum benefit amounts and no additional income.
Actual amounts may vary based on individual circumstances.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for these benefits:
- CPP: Must have made at least one valid contribution to the CPP and be at least 60 years old.
- OAS: Must be 65 years or older, a Canadian citizen or legal resident, and have resided in Canada for at least 10 years since age 18.
- GIS: Must be receiving OAS and have an income below specified thresholds.
It’s essential to file annual income tax returns to ensure continued eligibility, especially for GIS, which is income-tested.
How to Apply
- CPP and OAS: Applications can be submitted online through your My Service Canada Account or by mail.
- GIS: Typically applied for when applying for OAS. If not, a separate application is required.
Ensure all personal information is up to date to prevent payment delays.