CPP, OAS, and GIS Increase in September 2025 – What Seniors Need to Know Before Payday

Canadian seniors are once again at the heart of an important policy update this fall. As September 2025 approaches, three of the most significant government programs—Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)—are scheduled to deliver payments that reflect inflationary adjustments and the federal government’s ongoing commitment to retirement security.

With rising costs for essentials such as food, housing, and healthcare, the adjustments to these benefits come at a critical moment. For many retirees, the September payment date is not just another deposit—it’s a lifeline that helps them balance shrinking budgets against growing expenses.

This report breaks down the details of the CPP, OAS, and GIS increases in September 2025, covering payment schedules, eligibility, updated benefit amounts, and the broader impact on Canadian households.

Why Are CPP, OAS, and GIS Payments Increasing?

Canada’s retirement income programs are designed to be indexed to inflation. This means that as the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rises, benefit amounts are reviewed and adjusted to ensure that seniors don’t lose purchasing power over time.

• CPP is adjusted annually, with new rates introduced each January.
• OAS and GIS are reviewed quarterly and updated in January, April, July, and October.

The September 2025 payments reflect earlier indexing decisions made for the year. While the next OAS and GIS adjustments will appear in October, seniors will still see higher benefits than they received in 2024, ensuring that income levels remain stable against the backdrop of inflation.

CPP Increase – September 2025

The Canada Pension Plan is a contributory program tied directly to the earnings and contributions of workers throughout their careers.

• Payment Date: The September 2025 CPP payment will be issued on September 25, 2025.
• Increase: Although CPP increases take effect in January, recipients in September will still notice higher deposits compared to the same period last year.
• Eligibility:
• Must be at least 60 years old.
• Must have made at least one valid contribution to CPP during working years.
• Maximum Monthly Retirement Pension: In 2025, seniors retiring at 65 with maximum contributions can receive \$1,433/month.
• Average Payment: Most retirees receive less—around \$844/month—depending on their contribution history.

The CPP increase ensures that even seniors who worked at lower earnings levels see their benefits adjusted to maintain purchasing power.

OAS Increase – September 2025

Old Age Security is one of Canada’s most universal retirement benefits, funded through general revenues rather than individual contributions.

• Payment Date: OAS will be paid on September 25, 2025, alongside CPP.
• Quarterly Indexation: Payments are updated every three months to match inflation. The September amount reflects the July 2025 indexed rate, with further increases scheduled for October.
• Eligibility:
• Must be 65 years or older.
• Must be a Canadian resident or have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18.
• Most are automatically enrolled, though some must apply if Service Canada lacks sufficient records.

As of July–September 2025:

• Seniors aged 65–74 can receive up to \$734.95/month.
• Seniors aged 75+ are eligible for up to \$808.45/month, reflecting a permanent increase introduced in 2022.

This age-based distinction acknowledges that older seniors often face higher healthcare and living expenses.

GIS Increase – September 2025

The Guaranteed Income Supplement provides additional monthly support for low-income seniors who already receive OAS. For those with little or no other income, GIS is often the most important piece of their monthly support.

• Payment Date: GIS is issued on September 25, 2025, along with OAS.
• Quarterly Indexation: Like OAS, GIS amounts are reviewed every three months, with the October payment reflecting the next update.
• Eligibility:
• Must be receiving OAS.
• Annual income (or combined income with a spouse/common-law partner) must be below a set threshold.
• Annual tax returns must be filed to remain eligible.

As of July–September 2025:

• Single seniors with no income can receive up to \$1,097/month.
• Couples may qualify for slightly lower amounts each, depending on combined household income.

This ensures that Canada’s most financially vulnerable seniors do not fall below a basic income level.

Combined Impact of CPP, OAS, and GIS in September 2025

For seniors eligible for all three programs, the September payments represent substantial income support.

• Example 1: Low-income senior with average CPP
• CPP: $844
• OAS: $734.95
• GIS: $1,097
• Total: ~$2,675/month
• Example 2: Retiree with maximum CPP contributions
• CPP: $1,433
• OAS (75+): $808.45
• GIS: Not eligible due to higher income.
• Total: ~$2,241/month
• Example 3: Couple with modest CPP and GIS
• CPP (combined): ~$1,600
• OAS (each): $734.95 = $1,469.90
• GIS (each): ~$662 = $1,324
• Total household: ~$4,394/month

These scenarios highlight how seniors’ personal circumstances—career history, age, and income—directly influence the amount they receive.

Why These Increases Matter

With inflation continuing to impact food, housing, and healthcare costs, even modest adjustments can provide crucial relief. For many seniors:

• CPP provides a contributory earnings-based pension.
• OAS offers a universal baseline payment.
• GIS ensures that low-income seniors maintain basic dignity and financial security.

The September 2025 increases reflect the federal government’s strategy of protecting retirees from losing ground financially, even in challenging economic times.

How to Check Your Payments

Seniors should take steps to confirm payment amounts and schedules:

1. My Service Canada Account (MSCA): View detailed benefit amounts and histories.
2. Bank deposits: Look for “Government of Canada deposit.”
3. Cheques: For those not enrolled in direct deposit, payments arrive by mail.
4. Service Canada helpline: Call 1-800-277-9914 for inquiries.

Staying Eligible

To continue receiving these benefits, seniors should:

• File annual tax returns on time, even with little or no income.
• Keep Service Canada updated with current personal and banking details.
• Review GIS eligibility if income changes.

Failure to file taxes is one of the leading reasons for benefit disruptions.

The Bigger Picture – Canada’s Retirement System

Together, CPP, OAS, and GIS form a three-pillar system that balances universality, contribution-based security, and targeted support. This layered approach is designed to:

• Prevent seniors from slipping into poverty.
• Ensure stable, predictable income streams.
• Adjust payments with inflation to maintain purchasing power.

While the increases are modest, they are automatic, predictable, and designed to ensure long-term sustainability.

5 Relevant FAQs

Q1. When will CPP, OAS, and GIS payments be made in September 2025?
All three benefits will be deposited on September 25, 2025.

Q2. What is the maximum CPP payment in 2025?
The maximum monthly retirement pension at age 65 is \$1,433.

Q3. How much can seniors receive from OAS in September 2025?
Seniors aged 65–74 can get up to \$734.95/month, while those 75+ can receive \$808.45/month.

Q4. What is the maximum GIS benefit for September 2025?
Low-income single seniors can receive up to \$1,097/month.

Q5. Do I need to reapply for the increased payments?
No. The adjustments are automatic, provided you’ve filed your taxes and remain eligible.