OAS Payment Dates
Old Age Security (OAS) is one of Canada’s main retirement income programs. It provides monthly payments to eligible seniors aged 65 and older and can help support retirement income, everyday expenses and cost-of-living needs.
Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), OAS is mainly based on age, legal status and Canadian residency history, not employment contributions.
OAS Payment Dates 2026: When Will Your Next Payment Arrive?
Old Age Security payments are an important part of retirement income for millions of Canadian seniors. Knowing the exact OAS payment dates can help you plan monthly expenses such as housing, groceries, utilities, medication and other essential costs.
OAS payments are normally deposited once per month by direct deposit or sent by cheque. If your payment date falls close to a weekend or holiday, bank processing times and mail delivery may affect when the money is available.
OAS Payment Dates 2026
The table below shows the scheduled Old Age Security payment dates for 2026.
| Payment Month | OAS Payment Date | Payment Type |
|---|---|---|
| January 2026 | January 28, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| February 2026 | February 25, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| March 2026 | March 27, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| April 2026 | April 28, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| May 2026 | May 27, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| June 2026 | June 26, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| July 2026 | July 29, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| August 2026 | August 27, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| September 2026 | September 25, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| October 2026 | October 28, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| November 2026 | November 26, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
| December 2026 | December 22, 2026 | Monthly OAS payment |
These dates are based on the official Government of Canada benefits payment calendar. Payment timing may still depend on direct deposit, cheque delivery, weekends, holidays and bank processing times.
Who Is Eligible for Old Age Security?
OAS eligibility is different from CPP because you do not need to have worked or contributed to the Canada Pension Plan to qualify. Instead, OAS is generally based on age, legal status and how long you have lived in Canada after age 18.
- You generally must be 65 years of age or older.
- You must meet Canadian legal status requirements.
- You must meet the required Canadian residency rules.
- You may need to apply if you are not automatically enrolled.
- Your income may affect certain related benefits, such as GIS.
OAS, GIS and Other Senior Benefits
OAS Pension
The main monthly Old Age Security pension for eligible seniors aged 65 and older.
Guaranteed Income Supplement
Additional monthly support may be available for low-income OAS recipients.
Allowance Benefits
Some low-income people aged 60 to 64 may qualify through the Allowance or Allowance for the Survivor.
How Much Can You Receive From OAS?
OAS payment amounts can vary depending on your age, residency history and income. The Government of Canada reviews OAS amounts regularly and may adjust payments based on changes in the Consumer Price Index.
Some seniors aged 75 and older may receive a higher maximum OAS pension than seniors aged 65 to 74. Low-income seniors who receive OAS may also qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement.
Official OAS Payment Amounts →Can You Delay OAS Payments?
Some seniors may choose to delay receiving OAS after age 65. Delaying OAS can increase the monthly pension amount, but this decision depends on your personal financial situation, health, income and retirement plans.
According to Canada.ca, delaying OAS after age 65 can increase your monthly pension by 0.6% for each month you delay, up to age 70.
Official OAS Start Age Information →What Can Delay an OAS Payment?
Most OAS payments arrive on schedule, especially when direct deposit is enabled. However, delays can happen if your banking information changes, your mailing address is outdated, a cheque is delayed, or Service Canada needs to review your information.
- Outdated direct deposit information
- Cheque delivery delays
- Bank processing times
- Incorrect mailing address
- Missing or outdated personal information
- Income or eligibility review for related benefits
Official OAS Resources
Use the official Government of Canada links below to check OAS information, payment amounts and related senior benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is OAS paid?
OAS is generally paid once per month to eligible seniors.
What are the OAS payment dates for 2026?
The scheduled 2026 OAS payment dates are January 28, February 25, March 27, April 28, May 27, June 26, July 29, August 27, September 25, October 28, November 26 and December 22.
At what age can I receive OAS?
Most people become eligible for OAS at age 65, provided they meet legal status and residency requirements.
Is OAS the same as CPP?
No. OAS is mainly based on age and residency, while CPP is based on employment contributions made during your working years.
Can low-income seniors receive extra support?
Yes. Low-income OAS recipients may qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement, and some people aged 60 to 64 may qualify for Allowance benefits.
Related Payment Guides
Final Thoughts
Old Age Security is an important monthly payment for Canadian seniors. By checking the official OAS payment dates, understanding eligibility rules and keeping your direct deposit information updated, you can better plan your retirement income throughout 2026.
