A Refresher on Old Age Security Changes (Updated: 2026)

Important: The following describes historical proposals. The Government of Canada had proposed gradually increasing the age of eligibility for OAS and GIS from 65 to 67. That change was later reversed. OAS eligibility remains at age 65. This article is kept for context on deferral and automatic enrollment only.

The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is a monthly payment available to most people who meet Canadian legal status and residence requirements. You can receive OAS even if you have never worked or are still working.

Deferral
You have the option to defer receiving OAS for up to 60 months (5 years) after you become eligible, in exchange for a higher monthly payment. By delaying, the monthly amount increases by 0.6% per month, up to a maximum of 36% at age 70. So the deferral window is from age 65 to 70.

Who can benefit from deferring?
People who are still working and those who can afford to wait. Also, people whose income is above the clawback threshold may benefit from deferring so that they receive a higher OAS amount when their income is lower.

Can you cancel OAS to benefit from deferral?
You may request to cancel your OAS pension if you have been receiving it for less than 6 months. You must provide a written request within 6 months of your first payment and repay the pension and any related benefits received.

When to apply for deferral
You can apply up to 11 months before you want your OAS to start. Your deferred OAS will begin on the date you indicate on the application.

Automatic enrollment
Service Canada may automatically enroll eligible seniors. If you can be automatically enrolled, Service Canada will send you a notification letter the month after you turn 64. If you do not receive this letter, you must complete and mail the application forms.