The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is one of Canada’s most essential benefits for seniors, providing crucial financial support during retirement.

In March 2025, millions of eligible seniors will receive the $1,546 OAS direct deposit, which includes the base OAS pension and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) for qualifying individuals.

Understanding the eligibility criteria, payment date, and how to apply is key for seniors who want to maximize their benefits and ensure they are financially supported in their later years.

Breakdown of the Canada OAS Direct Deposit Payment

The Canada OAS payments will be issued on March 27, 2025. Here’s a detailed overview of what seniors can expect:

Aspect	Details
OAS Payment Amount (Ages 65-74)	$727.67 per month
OAS Payment Amount (Ages 75+)	$800.44 per month
Maximum Total Payment (with GIS)	Up to $1,546 per month
Eligibility Criteria	Age 65+, Canadian citizen/permanent resident, low income
GIS Amount	Varies based on income and marital status
Payment Date	March 27, 2025
Official Resource	Services Canada (Canada.ca)

What is the OAS and GIS?

OAS is a government-funded pension paid to seniors in Canada aged 65 and over. Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), OAS does not require any prior work contributions.

For seniors with limited income, additional financial support is provided through the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). GIS is available to OAS recipients who meet income criteria and is designed to help those who have a low annual income.

Key Benefits:

Discounted Prescription Medications – Access to lower-cost medicines through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
Bulk-Billed Doctor Visits – Some doctors offer bulk-billed visits, reducing medical expenses.
Utility and Public Transport Discounts – Certain provinces offer discounts on electricity, gas, and public transport fares.
Energy Supplement – A regular payment to help with household energy costs.

Eligibility Criteria for $1,546 OAS Payment

To qualify for the OAS pension in March 2025, you must meet the following requirements:

Age Requirement:
- Must be at least 65 years old.
- Those aged 75 and over will receive a higher payment ($800.44/month).
Residency Requirement:
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after the age of 18. For full OAS eligibility, you need to have resided in Canada for 40 years after turning 18.
Income Requirement:
- To qualify for GIS and reach the $1,546 payment, individuals must meet the income thresholds.
- Single seniors: Income below $21,624 annually to qualify for GIS.
- Couples: Combined income for couples must be below the following:
  - Both receiving OAS: Combined income below $28,560.
  - One receives OAS and the other does not: Combined income below $51,840.

When Will the OAS Direct Deposit Be Paid?

The OAS direct deposit will be made on March 27, 2025. Payments will be issued to eligible individuals based on their direct deposit preferences or sent by paper cheque.

Pro Tip:

If you do not receive your payment on the scheduled date, wait a few business days before reaching out to Service Canada.

How to Apply for the OAS and GIS

Most eligible seniors are automatically enrolled for OAS. However, if you have not received any notifications or need to apply for GIS, follow these steps:

Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the age, residency, and income requirements.
Gather Required Documents: Have your Social Insurance Number (SIN), proof of age, and income documents ready.
Submit the Application:
- Online: Apply via the My Service Canada Account.
- In-Person: Visit a local Service Canada center.
Wait for Approval: Your application will be processed, and you will receive a confirmation letter.

Tips for Maximizing Your OAS Benefits

To get the most out of your OAS and GIS:

Monitor your income: Ensure your income stays within the GIS eligibility limits.
Apply for all relevant benefits: Explore provincial and federal programs like utility discounts and public transport subsidies.
Stay updated: Regularly check your My Service Canada Account for updates and ensure your contact details are correct.

The $1,546 OAS direct deposit in March 2025 represents a crucial financial lifeline for many Canadian seniors, especially those with low income.

By meeting the eligibility criteria, seniors can access both the base OAS pension and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), helping them manage their retirement expenses.

To make sure payments are received smoothly, seniors must keep their records updated and apply for GIS if needed.

FAQs

What is the maximum OAS amount for seniors aged 75 and over in March 2025?

The maximum OAS amount for seniors aged 75 and over is $800.44 per month.

How can I apply for the OAS and GIS?

Apply online through the My Service Canada Account or visit your local Service Canada office for in-person assistance.

When will the March 2025 OAS payments be deposited?

The March 2025 OAS direct deposit will be made on March 27, 2025.