MyEligible
Start

Accessibility settings

Canadian benefits timeline: ages, deadlines and life stages

See when payment dates, application windows and programs become worth checking as ages and life situations change. For learning only — not a personal eligibility decision.

Program summaries and timing markers come from official government sources and may change. Confirm details on the linked pages before you act.

Optionally choose a province or territory to show local programs alongside Canada-wide ones. Nothing is selected by default. Federal programs always stay visible.

Now showing all of Canada.

Around 60

Programs people often look into when planning public pension timing (CPP can start between 60 and 70).

Start here

Up to three high-value first steps in this section.

  • Old Age Security pension

    Canada-wideAdults 65 and older

    What it is

    The Old Age Security pension is a monthly payment for people 65 and older who meet residency requirements.

    Check this if

    Worth checking before 65 when planning OAS and GIS timing with your tax situation.

Important timing

  • Between ages 60 and 70. CPP/QPP retirement pension can start anytime from 60 to 70. Starting earlier means payments sooner; starting later means a higher monthly amount. See Service Canada for official timing rules.

  • Between ages 60 and 64. The Allowance may be available when a spouse or partner receives full Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement. Income and residency rules apply.

More to consider

  • CPP Retirement Pension

    Canada-wideEmployed or EI-eligible

    What it is

    A monthly retirement pension from the Canada Pension Plan that can begin as early as age 60.

    Check this if

    Worth checking between ages 60 and 70 when deciding when to start CPP.

Make this timeline more relevant

Optional — prioritize cards that match your situation. Nothing is hidden.

Timeline transition dates and program summaries last reviewed 2026-08-26 against linked official sources. Amounts and rules change — confirm on official sites.

This page shows when programs become relevant to learn about, not whether you qualify or how much you would receive. Use the quiz or linked guides for specifics.

Around 60 | Canadian Benefits Timeline | MyEligible