March 2025 OAS & CPP Payment Dates – Eligibility, Payment Status, and Details

As March 2025 approaches, many Canadians who rely on Old Age Security (OAS) and Canada Pension Plan (CPP) payments will want to know their exact payment dates and eligibility details. Whether you’re a long-time recipient or new to these benefits, staying informed is crucial for financial planning.

This guide covers everything you need to know about OAS and CPP payments in March 2025, including payment dates, eligibility, how to check your payment status, and other useful information.

OAS and CPP Overview

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Before diving into the payment schedule, let’s briefly review what OAS and CPP are and why they matter.

OAS

Old Age Security (OAS) is a monthly payment from the Government of Canada for seniors aged 65 and older. Unlike CPP, OAS is not based on work history or contributions but rather on residency in Canada. To qualify, you must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. Those who have lived in Canada for 40 years or more after age 18 receive the full OAS amount.

CPP

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a social insurance program that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. It is funded through payroll contributions from workers and employers. The amount you receive depends on how much you contributed over your working years. Unlike OAS, CPP can be taken as early as age 60, though payments are reduced if taken before age 65.

March Payment Dates

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For March 2025, both OAS and CPP payments are scheduled for:

Payments are typically made on the last business day of the month, ensuring recipients receive their funds without delay. Since March 26, 2025, falls on a Wednesday, payments should be deposited into bank accounts on this date.

Payment Delivery Options

Most OAS and CPP recipients receive their payments through direct deposit, which is the fastest and most reliable method. If you are still receiving paper checks, switching to direct deposit can help you avoid potential mail delays. You can update your payment details through your My Service Canada Account.

Eligibility

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To qualify for OAS payments, you must:

• Be 65 years or older
• Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
• Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18

If you live outside of Canada, you may still qualify for OAS if you meet the residency requirements.

CPP Eligibility

To receive CPP payments, you must:

• Have made valid contributions to CPP during your working years
• Be at least 60 years old (though payments increase if you wait until 65 or later)

The amount you receive depends on your contribution history, with higher contributions leading to larger monthly payments.

CPP Contribution Rates

If you’re still working and contributing to CPP, it’s important to know the latest contribution rates.

The Year’s Maximum Pensionable Earnings (YMPE) for 2025 is $66,600. This means that CPP contributions are only required on earnings up to this amount.

Should You Delay CPP Payments?

One of the biggest decisions for retirees is when to start receiving CPP payments.

• If you take CPP at 60, payments are reduced by 0.6% per month before age 65 (up to a 36% reduction).
• If you delay CPP beyond 65, payments increase by 0.7% per month, resulting in a 42% increase if you wait until age 70.

Delaying CPP can be beneficial if you expect a longer retirement, but your personal financial situation should guide your decision.

How to Check

Keeping track of your OAS and CPP payments is simple if you use the right tools.

Step 1

This online portal allows you to:

• View upcoming payment dates
• Check your benefit amounts
• Update banking and personal details

Step 2

Once logged in, navigate to the benefits and pensions section to check your payment status.

Step 3

If you have issues with your payment or need assistance, you can contact Service Canada through their website, by phone, or by visiting a local office.

Additional Government Benefits

Besides OAS and CPP, seniors may qualify for additional financial support:

• Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): For low-income seniors who receive OAS.
• Allowance for the Survivor: For individuals aged 60-64 whose spouse or common-law partner has passed away.

These benefits can provide extra income support, ensuring financial stability in retirement.

Managing your OAS and CPP payments is essential for a secure retirement. With March 2025 payments scheduled for March 26, you can plan ahead and ensure your benefits arrive on time. By checking your payment status through My Service Canada Account and knowing your eligibility, you can stay on top of your finances and avoid any delays.

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