$808 OAS Payment Checks for October 2025 — CRA Confirms New Rates, Eligibility & COLA Adjustments

The Old Age Security (OAS) program is one of Canada’s longest-standing retirement supports, designed to provide monthly income to seniors aged 65 and above. Managed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in coordination with Service Canada, it ensures that older Canadians—particularly those with limited income—receive reliable financial assistance after retirement.

As of 2025, the maximum OAS payment for individuals aged 75 and older stands at $808.45 per month, while those between 65 and 74 receive $734.95. These amounts will remain in effect until September 2025, after which the next adjustment takes place in October 2025.

Why OAS Matters for Retired Canadians

The OAS program is a lifeline for low-income retirees, helping them manage everyday costs like housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. With inflation affecting seniors more directly—especially through prescription and utility costs—the quarterly Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) applied to OAS payments ensure their purchasing power is preserved.

This government-funded benefit represents Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting older citizens through economic stability and dignity in retirement.

$808 Old Age Security Payment 2025 Overview

Authority	Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
Article Title	$808 OAS Payment Checks in October 2025
Country	Canada
Maximum Payment Amount	$808.45 (for seniors 75 and older)
Eligibility	Low-income Canadian citizens aged 65 and above
Next Adjustment Date	October 2025
Payment Frequency	Monthly
Category	Canada Finance
Official Website	https://www.canada.ca

Understanding the Latest OAS Adjustment

The CRA reviews OAS benefit levels four times per year—January, April, July, and October—to ensure payments reflect current inflation. The 2.5 percent increase implemented in 2025 has already boosted monthly payments, but new rates could again change this October if inflation continues to rise.

Such updates are always published on the official CRA website, and seniors are urged to verify information there rather than rely on unverified online posts.

Who Is Eligible for OAS Benefits in 2025

To receive OAS benefits, applicants must satisfy a few clear conditions established by the CRA:

• Age Requirement – You must be 65 or older at the time payments begin. Applications can start as early as age 64.
• Residency Rule – You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. If residing outside Canada, you need 20 years of Canadian residency to qualify.
• Legal Status – Only legal citizens or permanent residents of Canada are eligible.
• Income Thresholds – Eligibility is tied to income limits: for seniors aged 65–74, the maximum net income is $148,451; for those aged 75 and above, it is $154,196.
• Retirement Status – Applicants should be retired or semi-retired and not actively earning a full-time income above the set threshold.

OAS Payment Amounts for 2025

Age Group	Monthly Payment Amount
65 to 74 years	$734.95
75 and older	$808.45

These amounts apply through September 2025. The CRA will publish updated figures in October after its quarterly review. Any increase is linked to inflation and Canada’s Consumer Price Index (CPI).

How COLA Adjustments Protect Seniors

The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) ensures OAS recipients maintain their buying power even as prices rise. COLA calculations compare average CPI changes over recent months; when the cost of goods increases, the CRA automatically raises OAS payments by a matching percentage.

In 2025, a 2.5 percent COLA increase was applied to help retirees cope with higher living expenses such as energy bills and healthcare costs.

How to Apply for OAS Benefits

1. Check Eligibility

Before applying, confirm that you meet all criteria relating to age, residency, and income. You can estimate your expected payment using CRA’s online pension calculator.

2. Gather Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Proof of birth (certificate or passport)
• Proof of residency or immigration status
• Income statements and retirement records

3. Complete Your Application Online

Log into your My Service Canada Account (MSCA) and locate the OAS application form. Provide accurate details and upload supporting documents electronically.

4. Mail Option

Alternatively, you can print and mail the form to the nearest CRA office if you prefer paper submission.

5. Verification and Approval

Once the application is reviewed, you will receive an official letter detailing the approval status and first payment date. Processing time may take up to three months.

Avoid Common Application Mistakes

Many first-time applicants face delays due to missing documents or incorrect information. To avoid processing issues:

• Ensure the name on your application matches your government ID.
• Verify your bank details for direct deposit.
• Report all income accurately.
• File your annual tax return on time.

Income Limits and Benefit Reductions

OAS payments are gradually reduced when income exceeds the set thresholds. For every dollar earned above the limit, a portion of the benefit is clawed back. Seniors who continue to work or draw from investments should monitor their annual income to avoid over-payment issues.

OAS Payment Schedule and Frequency

OAS benefits are deposited monthly, typically near the end of each month. If the scheduled date falls on a holiday or weekend, payments are processed on the previous business day.

Recipients can choose between:

• Direct Deposit for faster, secure payments, or
• Paper Cheques mailed to their registered address.

The Role of the CRA and Service Canada

While Service Canada administers the OAS program and handles applications, the CRA oversees tax compliance and adjustments. Together, they ensure that seniors receive accurate and timely benefits based on verified income data.

How the OAS Program Supports Low-Income Seniors

The OAS is a key pillar in Canada’s retirement income system, working alongside the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). While CPP is based on employment contributions, OAS is universal—funded by general tax revenues and available even to those who did not work full time during their career.

This structure helps ensure that all seniors, regardless of their employment history, can access financial stability in later life.

Latest Update on OAS for October 2025

The next scheduled increase in OAS benefits will take effect in October 2025, as part of the quarterly COLA review. The exact adjusted amount will be announced on the official CRA portal.

Until then, payments for eligible Canadians remain at $734.95 (for ages 65–74) and $808.45 (for ages 75+). Citizens are advised to monitor the CRA website for any confirmed rate changes.

Beware of Misinformation

Recent months have seen misleading social-media posts claiming special “bonus” OAS payments or one-time grants. The CRA has clarified that such claims are false. All authentic updates appear exclusively on www.canada.ca. Canadians should avoid sharing personal information with unverified sources to protect against fraud.

Financial Planning for Seniors

Seniors are encouraged to combine OAS payments with other income streams such as CPP, private pensions, and savings accounts for a secure retirement. Those struggling to cover expenses can also apply for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which adds extra support for low-income recipients.

Verifying Your OAS Payment Status

To check payment dates or confirm benefit status:

• Log into your My Service Canada Account.
• Navigate to “OAS and CPP Payments.”
• Review payment amounts, deposit dates, and any upcoming adjustments.
• Update your banking or address information to prevent delays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the current OAS payment for 2025?
For seniors aged 65–74, the monthly OAS payment is $734.95. For those aged 75 and older, the payment is $808.45 as of September 2025.

2. When will the next OAS increase occur?
The next adjustment will take place in October 2025 under the COLA review by the CRA. Any updated rates will be announced on the official CRA website.

3. How can I apply for Old Age Security?
You can apply online through your My Service Canada Account or by mailing the application form along with supporting documents such as proof of age and residency.

4. Is the OAS benefit affected by income?
Yes. If your annual income exceeds the threshold ($148,451 for 65–74 and $154,196 for 75+), your OAS may be partially reduced.

5. Where can I check official OAS updates?
Always refer to the official CRA portal at www.canada.ca for verified information on OAS rates, eligibility, and payment schedules.