Someone with 40 years of residence in Canada receives the full OAS pension, currently $751.97 a month at ages 65 to 74. Holding off until 70 lifts it to about $1,022.68. Net income above $95,323 in 2026 triggers a repayment of 15% of the excess, so a $110,000 income costs about $2,202 a year.
Who gets OAS
Most Canadians are paid OAS from age 65. Your earnings and work history do not matter. Residence does: you need at least 10 years in Canada after turning 18. Forty years after 18 earns the full amount. Fewer years earn a share.
Partial pensions
With under 40 years, the pension is prorated as years of residence divided by 40. Someone with 25 years gets 62.5% of the full amount, and the calculator does the arithmetic. Time abroad can sometimes count through social security agreements, so ask Service Canada.
Waiting to start
You may delay OAS for up to five years past 65. Each month adds 0.6%, which reaches 36% at 70. Waiting beyond 70 gains nothing. Then, at 75, the pension goes up another 10% on its own, and the calculator has a box for that.
The recovery tax
High earners pay back part of their OAS. The 2026 threshold is $95,323 of net world income, and you repay 15 cents on every dollar above it, until the pension is fully repaid. It is collected through your tax return, and in some cases employers withhold it. Enter your expected retirement income to see the effect.
How the amounts change
OAS is adjusted for inflation every three months, in January, April, July and October. The first field holds the amount for ages 65 to 74 at the time of writing. Change it to match the current figure on canada.ca.
Cutting the clawback
Income splitting, RRSP withdrawals spread over more years and tax-free savings can all lower your net income in retirement. Deferring OAS may also help if your income will drop later. Ask a tax professional.
Residence and moving abroad
Only time lived in Canada counts, and a long stay outside the country can shrink the pension. If you left for work and came back, count the full years with care. Countries that have a social security agreement with Canada may let their years count too. Service Canada confirms your exact years when you apply.
When to apply
Service Canada usually writes to people the year before they turn 65, but not always, so apply about a year ahead and the first payment arrives on time. Miss the date and you can claim back payments for up to 11 months. Starting late costs nothing unless you chose to delay on purpose.
Toronto and Ontario retirees
OAS pays the same in every province, but living costs differ. In Toronto, housing takes a bigger bite of a pension than in smaller cities. Ontario seniors on low incomes can also get the GIS, and it makes sense to check both programs together when planning your first year.
Where to go next
Add the Canada Pension Plan with the CPP calculator. Model your savings in the retirement calculator. To see your tax rate, use the marginal tax rate calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How much is OAS per month?
At ages 65 to 74 the full pension is $751.97 a month at the time of writing. It rises again at 75.
How many years do I need for a full OAS pension?
40 years of residence in Canada after age 18.
What is the OAS clawback?
A repayment of 15% of net income above $95,323 in 2026.
Should I delay OAS?
Each month of delay adds 0.6%, up to 36% at 70. It can help if you expect a long life.
Does OAS rise at 75?
Yes, by 10%, starting the month after your 75th birthday.
How often does OAS change?
Every three months to match inflation.
Sources and updates
Last reviewed: . Full disclaimer. How we build calculators. Editorial policy.
Estimate only. This calculator gives general information for planning. It is not tax, legal or financial advice, and it is not affiliated with the City of Toronto, MPAC or the Canada Revenue Agency. Results depend on the numbers you enter and may differ from official amounts. Check official sources or a qualified professional before you decide.