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.
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Programs people often look into around retirement income (OAS typically starts at 65).
Up to three high-value first steps in this section.
What it is
A monthly pension from the federal government for people 65 and older who meet Canadian residency rules.
Check this if
Worth checking around age 65 for the Old Age Security pension.
When to act
When planning Old Age Security Living in Canada at least 10 years after age 18 is required for any OAS pension when you apply from Canada; fewer than 40 years means a partial pension. See official residency rules.
When planning Old Age Security. Living in Canada at least 10 years after age 18 is required for any OAS pension when you apply from Canada; fewer than 40 years means a partial pension. See official residency rules.
What it is
A monthly top-up for low-income seniors who receive Old Age Security.
Check this if
Worth checking at 65+ when income is low and you receive OAS.
What it is
Published schedules showing when federal and provincial benefit payments are issued.
Check this if
Worth checking when you want federal and provincial payment schedules in one place.
Around age 64. Many people receive an Old Age Security enrollment letter. If you do not get one, you may need to apply. See Service Canada for next steps.
From age 65 up to age 70. Old Age Security can start at 65 or be delayed for a higher later payment. Delaying also delays GIS and Allowance during that period. See Service Canada for official deferral rules.
Every year while receiving GIS. GIS is reassessed from your tax return; missing or late filing can stop or reduce payments. See Service Canada for renewal steps.
By December 31 of the year you turn 71. Registered account rules change: RRSP contributions stop and the plan must be converted or withdrawn; FHSA must close; Home Buyers Plan repayments via RRSP end. See CRA guides for each program.
What it is
A monthly retirement pension based on your contributions to the Canada Pension Plan.
Check this if
Worth checking from age 60 if you have CPP contributions.
What it is
A monthly payment for low-income people aged 60 to 64 whose spouse or partner receives the Guaranteed Income Supplement.
Check this if
Worth checking between 60 and 64 for low-income spouses or survivors in some cases.
What it is
Provincial and territorial programs that supplement retirement income for seniors.
Check this if
Worth checking at 65+; amounts and rules vary by province or territory.
Filter by province above to see what you may be eligible for in your province or territory.
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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.