October Old Age Security Payments: Date, Maximum Amounts and Eligibility
Canada’s next Old Age Security (OAS) payment is scheduled for October 28, 2026, with updated monthly benefit amounts in effect for the October-to-December quarter. Eligible recipients aged 65 to 74 can receive up to $762.50 per month, while those aged 75 and older can receive up to $838.75.
The federal government has also published updated rates for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which provides additional financial support to eligible low-income seniors. However, the amount each person receives depends on factors such as income, age, residency history and marital status.
When is the October OAS payment?
According to the Government of Canada’s official benefits calendar, the October Old Age Security payment date is Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
OAS benefits are generally paid monthly to eligible seniors. Recipients who use direct deposit can check their bank account around the scheduled payment date. Those receiving payments by cheque should allow time for postal delivery.
The upcoming payment also reflects the quarterly adjustment to OAS benefit rates. The government reviews these amounts in January, April, July and October to account for changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a measure of inflation.
For the October-to-December quarter, OAS benefits increased by 1.4% compared with the previous quarter, according to Employment and Social Development Canada.
How much can seniors receive in October?
The maximum monthly OAS pension depends primarily on the recipient’s age and eligibility. The following amounts apply from October through December 2026.
| Recipient’s age | Maximum monthly OAS | Maximum annual equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 65–74 | $762.50 | $9,150 |
| 75 and older | $838.75 | $10,065 |
Source: Government of Canada. Annual equivalents are calculated by multiplying the monthly maximum by 12; they are not guaranteed individual payments.
The higher rate for people aged 75 and older reflects the permanent 10% increase introduced in July 2022 for this age group.
These figures are maximums, not fixed payments for every senior. The amount a person receives can be lower depending on their income and how long they have lived in Canada after turning 18. Seniors receiving a partial OAS pension should obtain an estimate specific to their circumstances rather than assume they qualify for the full amount.
Guaranteed Income Supplement: Additional support for low-income seniors
Seniors who receive OAS may also qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement. This additional monthly benefit is intended to help eligible older Canadians with limited income.
For the October-to-December quarter, the published maximum GIS amounts and income thresholds are:
| Household situation | Annual income threshold | Maximum monthly GIS |
|---|---|---|
| Single, widowed or divorced | Less than $23,112 | $1,138.90 |
| Spouse or partner receives full OAS | Combined income below $30,528 | $685.56 |
| Spouse or partner receives the Allowance | Combined income below $42,768 | $685.56 |
| Spouse or partner receives neither OAS nor the Allowance | Combined income below $55,392 | $1,138.90 |
These thresholds and payment amounts are published by the federal government. Actual GIS payments depend on income and household circumstances, so qualifying for the supplement does not automatically mean receiving the maximum.
Who qualifies for the GIS?
Generally, applicants must:
- Be aged 65 or older.
- Receive the Old Age Security pension.
- Live in Canada.
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident.
- Have income below the applicable threshold for their marital status.
- Not be subject to a current sponsorship agreement.
Eligible seniors who are not already receiving GIS should check the government’s eligibility requirements and application process.
GIS payments are not taxable, unlike the regular OAS pension. This distinction matters when seniors calculate how much money they will have available after taxes.
Why might an OAS payment be lower than the published maximum?
Several factors can explain why a senior receives less than the advertised monthly amount.
1. Income and recovery tax
OAS is taxable income. Higher-income recipients may have some or all of their pension subject to the OAS recovery tax, commonly known as the clawback. The applicable threshold depends on the tax year, so recipients should consult the government’s current rules.
2. Canadian residency history
The full pension is not automatic for everyone who reaches age 65. The amount generally depends on how long someone lived in Canada after turning 18. People with at least 10 years but fewer than 40 years of Canadian residence may qualify for a partial pension, subject to the applicable rules.
3. Eligibility for additional benefits
GIS is calculated separately from OAS and depends on income and marital status. A recipient who does not qualify for GIS will not receive that supplement, even if they receive the regular pension.
4. Changes in income or personal circumstances
Changes in annual income can affect GIS eligibility and payment amounts. The government recalculates GIS benefits each July using income information from the previous calendar year. Changes in marital status or other relevant circumstances can also affect the amount payable.
What seniors should check before the October payment
Recipients can take a few practical steps to confirm their expected payment and avoid preventable interruptions.
- Check the payment date: Mark October 28 on your calendar.
- Review your individual amount: Sign in to My Service Canada Account to review available benefit information.
- Check your direct deposit details: Make sure your banking information is current.
- File your tax return: GIS payments may be reduced or stopped if the government does not have the information needed to confirm continued eligibility.
- Review additional support: If your income is limited, check whether you qualify for GIS or another OAS-related benefit.
The federal government’s OAS benefits estimator can also help recipients estimate their pension based on their individual circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
When will the October OAS payment arrive?
The official payment date is October 28, 2026. The date applies to OAS and related benefits listed in the federal payment calendar.
Is every senior entitled to $838.75 per month?
No. The $838.75 maximum applies to eligible recipients aged 75 and older. Seniors aged 65 to 74 have a maximum of $762.50 for the October-to-December quarter. Individual payments can be lower.
Can I receive OAS and GIS at the same time?
Yes. Eligible seniors can receive GIS in addition to their OAS pension. GIS is income-tested, and the amount depends on household circumstances.
Why did my payment change?
A payment can change because of quarterly cost-of-living adjustments, income reassessments, eligibility changes or tax-related deductions. Check your account and contact Service Canada if the amount differs from what you expected.
Editorial assessment
The October payment update provides useful guidance for seniors planning their monthly budgets, particularly those relying on government benefits for essential expenses. The published maximums establish a clear reference point, but they should not be treated as guaranteed income.
For accurate financial planning, recipients should verify their individual payment through Service Canada and check their eligibility for the Guaranteed Income Supplement. Reviewing tax filings and household information can also help prevent avoidable interruptions to income-tested benefits.
Official Sources
- Government of Canada — Old Age Security
- Government of Canada — Old Age Security payment amounts
- Government of Canada — Guaranteed Income Supplement: How much you could receive
- Government of Canada — Benefits payment dates
Contact: info@canadaalyom.com
