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    FAQ · 13 answers

    Old Age Security and GIS: frequently asked questions

    Old Age Security is paid to most Canadians from 65, and the GIS adds an income-tested top-up for people with low income. These answers use the official figures for the October–December 2026 quarter and the 2026 recovery tax threshold. The OAS guide covers the topic in depth.

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    Questions and answers

    When does OAS start, and do I need to apply?
    OAS is payable from 65. Some people are enrolled automatically, while others need to apply, so check your letter from Service Canada as you approach 65. If you have not received a letter, contact Service Canada to apply.
    How much is the OAS pension right now?
    For October to December 2026, the maximum OAS pension is $762.50 a month for people aged 65 to 74 and $838.75 a month at 75 or older, which is 10% higher. OAS is adjusted every quarter for inflation, so the amounts change through the year. Current and past figures are on key figures.
    How many years in Canada do I need for a full OAS pension?
    A full pension requires 40 years of residence in Canada after age 18. With fewer years, a partial pension is generally paid at 1/40 of the full amount for each year, with at least 10 years required while living in Canada (20 years if you live outside Canada; confirm with Service Canada). See OAS for immigrants.
    What is the OAS clawback?
    The OAS recovery tax, often called the clawback, is 15% of net world income above a threshold, which is $95,323 for 2026. OAS is fully recovered at about $155,320 of net income for people aged 65 to 74 and about $161,320 at 75 or older (2026 estimates). The OAS clawback tool shows the effect at your income, and OAS clawback explained covers the details.
    Can I delay OAS to get a larger pension?
    Yes. You can defer OAS for up to 60 months after 65, and the pension rises by 0.6% for each month deferred, or 36% at 70. Deferring can make sense for some people and not others, depending on income, health and the recovery tax. Deferring OAS to 70 explains the trade-offs.
    What is the Guaranteed Income Supplement?
    The GIS is a monthly, income-tested benefit for OAS recipients with low income. For October to December 2026, a single person can receive up to $1,138.90 a month if their income is under $23,112. It is not taxable, but it must be reported on your return. See GIS for low-income seniors.
    How does GIS work for couples?
    For a couple where the spouse also receives the full OAS pension, each partner can receive up to $685.56 a month (October to December 2026) if combined income is under $30,528. Different amounts apply when the spouse receives the Allowance or no OAS, so check Service Canada's tables for your situation.
    What are the Allowance and the Allowance for the Survivor?
    The Allowance is a benefit for people aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or common-law partner receives GIS, and the Allowance for the Survivor is for people aged 60 to 64 who are widowed. Both are income-tested and stop at 65, when OAS and GIS can begin. Confirm eligibility and amounts with Service Canada.
    Does other income reduce my GIS?
    Yes. GIS is income-tested, so CPP, workplace pensions, RRIF withdrawals and investment income can reduce it; OAS itself is not counted. Because GIS is calculated from your tax return, filing every year matters even if your income is low.
    Do TFSA withdrawals affect OAS or GIS?
    No. TFSA withdrawals are not taxable income, so they do not count toward the OAS recovery tax or the GIS income test. That is one reason TFSAs come up in TFSA in retirement.
    Can OAS be split with my spouse for tax purposes?
    No. OAS cannot be allocated under pension income splitting, and each spouse's OAS is taxed to them. Splitting other eligible pension income can still lower the higher earner's net income and, with it, any recovery tax. Try the pension income splitting tool.
    Do provinces add anything to GIS?
    Several provinces and territories pay their own top-ups or offer programs tied to receiving GIS, such as Ontario's GAINS or B.C.'s Senior's Supplement. Eligibility and amounts vary, so see the provincial benefits hub for your province.
    Is OAS taxable?
    Yes. OAS is taxable income and is included in the net income used for the recovery tax. The GIS and the Allowance are not taxable but are reported on your return.

    Educational estimate, not advice. Results depend on your inputs and the assumptions listed. They are not a prediction of returns or a recommendation. Check benefit amounts in your My Service Canada Account and tax details with the CRA. Read the disclaimer.