Rumors are circulating that senior citizens in Canada will receive a $2,250 Old Age Security (OAS) payment in June 2025. While the headline sounds exciting, the reality is more nuanced. The $2,250 figure isn’t a one-time payment or a sudden bonus. Instead, it reflects the possible combined total of federal and provincial support programs available to low-income seniors who meet specific eligibility criteria.
what the $2,250 amount includes
The widely shared $2,250 number is not from a single government program. It comes from combining the OAS pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and provincial top-ups. Seniors who receive all three—especially those aged 75 and older—could reach a monthly benefit close to that total. But this isn’t guaranteed for everyone and is only available to seniors with little or no other income.
oas payment basics
Old Age Security is a federal pension available to Canadians aged 65 and above. To qualify, you must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18. In 2025, seniors between 65 and 74 receive up to $727.67 per month. Once you turn 75, that amount increases to $800.44 per month. However, high-income earners may see reduced or eliminated benefits due to the OAS clawback, which starts around $79,000 in annual income.
how gis adds to the total
The GIS is a tax-free benefit provided to low-income seniors already receiving OAS. For single seniors, GIS can be worth up to $1,086.88 monthly. When added to the OAS amount, total federal support can be approximately $1,887 per month for seniors over 75. If the recipient lives in a province with additional benefits, this total could rise closer to $2,250 per month.
who can receive the full amount
To approach the $2,250 monthly mark, you’ll need to meet several strict conditions: be over 75 years old, have full OAS eligibility based on Canadian residency, and report little to no other income such as CPP or private pensions. You may also need to live in a province that offers extra support, like Ontario, where the GAINS program adds up to $83 per month to qualifying seniors’ income.
provincial bonus programs
Some provinces offer additional financial help for seniors on top of the OAS and GIS. For instance, Ontario has the GAINS program, while other provinces like British Columbia and Quebec provide various tax credits, rent supplements, or energy rebates. These extra funds contribute to raising the monthly total for eligible recipients, potentially pushing it above the $2,250 figure.
changes and timing of benefits
OAS and GIS benefits are reviewed every three months to account for inflation. While the April to June 2025 period saw no change due to stable CPI data, updates may come in July 2025. Additionally, seniors automatically start receiving the higher OAS rate in the month after they turn 75. These adjustments help seniors keep pace with rising living costs.
how to boost your monthly benefit
To ensure you get the maximum support possible, apply for OAS early—up to six months before your 65th birthday. Always file your taxes on time because GIS eligibility is based on the previous year’s income. Reporting changes to your income and checking for provincial programs can also help. Signing up for a My Service Canada Account makes it easier to track your benefits and ensure direct deposit is set up.
Disclaimer: The $2,250 figure is a combined estimate and not a guaranteed payment for every senior. The actual amount depends on multiple factors including your age, income, province of residence, and eligibility for other programs. Always check your CRA and Service Canada accounts or speak with a financial advisor to get accurate information based on your personal circumstances.
