If you’re 65 or older and rely on Canada’s Old Age Security (OAS) program to help with your monthly expenses, your September 2026 OAS payment is almost here.
This month’s deposit will include the updated rates introduced in July 2026, and some seniors — especially in Quebec — could see their benefits reach over $1,800 when combined with additional supports like the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) or the Allowance.
Below, we break down everything you need to know: eligibility, payment amounts, deposit dates, and how to maximize your benefits.
What is Old Age Security (OAS) in Canada?
Old Age Security is a federal pension program that provides monthly payments to seniors once they turn 65. Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), OAS does not depend on your work history. Instead, eligibility is based mainly on your age and years of residency in Canada.
Calculate Your 2026 COLA Increase →Most people are automatically enrolled before their 65th birthday. Others may need to apply directly through Service Canada.
Who Qualifies for OAS?
To qualify for OAS, you must:
- Be 65 or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since age 18
If you live outside of Canada now, you can still qualify as long as you:
- Lived in Canada for 20 years or more as an adult, and
- Were a citizen or legal resident when you left.
OAS Clawback (Recovery Tax)
High-income seniors may face a repayment. In 2026, the OAS clawback starts at:
- $148,541 for seniors aged 65–74
- $154,196 for seniors 75 and older
How Much Can You Get in September 2026?
OAS rates are reviewed every three months — in January, April, July, and October — to keep pace with inflation. The current rates are:
- Ages 65–74: up to $734.95/month
- Ages 75+: up to $808.45/month (thanks to the permanent 10% boost after your 75th birthday)
If you also qualify for GIS or the Allowance, your monthly benefit could exceed $1,800, depending on your income and household situation.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and Allowance
Some seniors can get more than just the base OAS payment. These programs provide extra support for low-income seniors:
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- For OAS recipients living in Canada
- Income must be under:
- $22,272 if single, widowed, or divorced
- $29,424 for couples where both receive OAS
- $41,184 for couples where one gets the Allowance
- $53,376 for couples where one doesn’t receive OAS or Allowance
Allowance (Ages 60–64)
- For those whose spouse or partner qualifies for GIS
- Must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Household income must be under $41,184
Allowance for the Survivor
- For widowed individuals aged 60–64
- Must not have remarried or entered a new common-law partnership
- Income must be under $29,976
How to Apply for OAS
Many Canadians are automatically enrolled, but if you don’t receive a letter from Service Canada, you’ll need to apply.
Ways to apply:
- Online through My Service Canada Account
- By mailing a paper application
- By visiting a Service Canada office
You can start payments the month after your 65th birthday or defer up to age 70 to receive a larger monthly amount.
When is the September 2026 OAS Payment Coming?
The September 2026 OAS payment date is Thursday, September 25.
- If you use direct deposit, the funds will appear the same day.
- If you receive a cheque, delivery may take a few extra days.
Service Canada recommends enrolling in direct deposit to avoid payment delays.
Is OAS Taxable?
Yes. OAS is considered taxable income, and you must report it on your annual tax return.
To avoid a surprise bill at tax time, you can request tax withholdings directly through My Service Canada Account or by submitting a federal form.
Remaining 2026 OAS Payment Dates
Here’s when the rest of the 2026 OAS deposits will arrive:
- September 25
- October 29
- November 26
- December 22
The September 2026 Old Age Security payment is set to arrive soon, bringing welcome support to millions of Canadian seniors. With additional programs like the GIS and Allowance, some households could see payments topping $1,800 this month.
If you haven’t already, ensure you’re enrolled in direct deposit and check if you qualify for extra supports — every dollar matters in retirement.
