OAS and CPP are two pillars of Canada’s retirement income system. While CPP is a contributory plan based on your past earnings and contributions, OAS is funded by general tax revenue and provides monthly support to seniors over 65, regardless of work history.
Now, in June 2025, speculation is growing about whether extra retirement support is on the way. With rising living costs hitting low-income seniors particularly hard, many are hoping the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will offer one-time relief in the form of bonus checks this month.
Why OAS and CPP Matter in 2025
Together, Old Age Security (OAS) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) form the backbone of retirement income for millions. Most retirees also depend on employer pensions, private savings, or other provincial and federal supports to make ends meet.
But in today’s economic climate, many seniors—especially those on fixed incomes—are struggling to cover essentials like food, rent, and medication. This has led to calls for additional government support, particularly for seniors in lower-income brackets.
June 2025: A Payment Shift Raises Eyebrows
The CRA has confirmed that OAS payments for June 2025 will be issued earlier than usual, on June 26 instead of the typical end-of-month schedule. This date change is fueling speculation that extra payments might be tied to the early disbursement—especially for those who qualify for Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) alongside OAS.
While no official announcement has been made regarding a lump-sum bonus, early payments may provide temporary relief and help seniors better budget for the month’s final days.
Who Is Eligible for OAS and CPP in 2025?
The two programs have different eligibility criteria, and understanding them is key if you’re hoping to receive full entitlements—or possible extras.
| Program | Age Requirement | Residency | Contribution Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| OAS | 65+ | 10+ years in Canada after age 18 | None |
| CPP | 60+ (to apply) | Must live in Canada or have paid into CPP | At least one valid contribution |
If you are a low-income senior, you may also be eligible for GIS, which is automatically added to OAS payments for qualifying individuals.
OAS Payment Rates (2025):
| Age Group | Monthly OAS Payment |
|---|---|
| 65 to 74 | $727.67 |
| 75 and older | $800.44 |
These amounts are subject to quarterly adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), meaning they may increase slightly over time to account for inflation.
CPP Payment Amounts (2025):
| Detail | CPP Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Average Payment (age 65) | $815.00 |
| Maximum Payment (age 65) | $1,364.60 |
| Early retirement (age 60) | Up to 36% reduction |
If you choose to retire before age 65, your CPP benefits will be reduced by 0.6% for every month prior to your 65th birthday.
Are Extra Retirement Checks Really Coming in June?
Despite the circulating rumors, there has been no official confirmation from the CRA or any government department about an additional retirement bonus in June 2025.
However, the early OAS payment—combined with regular GIS disbursements for eligible seniors—may offer some extra financial room for those most in need.
In short: no new bonus has been announced, but the timing and structure of June payments are still beneficial for many.
How to Apply for OAS and CPP (If Not Already Receiving)
If you haven’t yet applied for OAS or CPP, or if you’re nearing eligibility, now is the time to act. Here’s what you need to know:
Steps to Apply:
- Visit canada.ca.
- Go to the “Apply for Old Age Security” or “Apply for Canada Pension Plan” section.
- Use your SIN number to start the application.
- Submit any required documents online or by mail.
- Opt for direct deposit to receive your payments faster.
Some Canadians are automatically enrolled into OAS upon turning 65, but not all. If you haven’t received a notification, it’s best to apply directly to avoid delays.
CRA Pension Payment Schedule for 2025
Keeping track of your payment dates is essential for budgeting. Here is the complete CRA retirement benefit payment calendar for the year:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | 29th January 2025 |
| February | 26th February 2025 |
| March | 27th March 2025 |
| April | 28th April 2025 |
| May | 28th May 2025 |
| June | 26th June 2025 |
| July | 29th July 2025 |
| August | 27th August 2025 |
| September | 25th September 2025 |
| October | 29th October 2025 |
| November | 26th November 2025 |
| December | 22nd December 2025 |
If your payment falls on a weekend or holiday, it may be deposited earlier or delayed slightly.
Why Seniors Are Hoping for More Support
With rent, groceries, and healthcare costs climbing across Canada, many retirees are calling for a top-up to their monthly benefits. Advocacy groups argue that a one-time relief payment would help cover essentials, especially during periods of high inflation.
Though nothing is confirmed, the early June payment gives some hope that additional support mechanisms could follow—especially for those who qualify for GIS and other income-tested supplements.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Missing
If your OAS or CPP payment doesn’t arrive as expected, you should:
- Wait 1–2 business days past the scheduled date.
- Check if there was a banking error or public holiday.
- Contact Service Canada through your My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or by phone.
Missing payments are rare but can happen due to account changes, processing delays, or incomplete documents.
