Karen Minn
As July 29, 2025 approaches, many Canadian seniors are hearing about a $969 Old Age Security (OAS) payment. While the figure is accurate for some, it’s not a new universal payment or a one-time government bonus.
The amount reflects specific eligibility factors—primarily for those who have strategically delayed their OAS benefits.
This article breaks down who qualifies for the $969 payment, how OAS works, and the real payment changes seniors can expect this July.
What Is the $969 OAS Payment?
The $969 per month figure is tied to a maximum OAS deferral bonus available to seniors who delayed their OAS pension until age 69 or 70. It also reflects the latest 1% inflation-based adjustment applied in July 2025.
Key Points:
- There is no new OAS program or CRA bonus
- Most seniors will receive standard OAS amounts
- Only those who deferred their pension will receive the higher figure
How the $969 Payment Is Calculated
OAS provides a base monthly payment to seniors aged 65 and older. If you choose to delay the start of OAS, your monthly benefit increases by 0.6% per month (up to 36% at age 70).
With the July 2025 CPI increase of 1%, the updated OAS figures are:
| Scenario | Base OAS (July 2025) | Deferral Bonus | Final OAS Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age 65–74 | $734.94 | None | $734.94 |
| Age 75+ | $808.44 | None | $808.44 |
| Deferred to Age 69 | $734.94 | +29.4% | $950.61 |
| Deferred to Age 70 | $734.94 | +36% | $999.52 |
Only those who deferred to age 69–70 are eligible for the $969–$999+ monthly amounts.
Eligibility Requirements for OAS
To receive any OAS payment, including the maximum amount:
- You must be 65 or older
- You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18
- You must be a Canadian resident
- You must meet income and residency requirements
To qualify for the $969+ payment, you must:
- Delay OAS until age 69 or 70
- Earn the full deferral bonus
- Be eligible for the maximum base rate
Those who start OAS at age 65 will not qualify for the higher amounts.
Understanding the July 2025 CPI Adjustment
OAS is adjusted quarterly based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to keep pace with inflation.
July 2025 OAS Increase:
| Age Group | Previous Monthly Amount | New Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Age 65–74 | $727.67 | $734.94 |
| Age 75+ | $800.44 | $808.44 |
This 1% increase helps seniors maintain purchasing power but will not bring payments to $969 unless paired with a deferral bonus.
OAS Payment Date in July 2025
| Month | OAS Payment Date |
|---|---|
| July | July 29, 2025 |
Regardless of how much you’re eligible to receive, the CRA will deposit your OAS payment on July 29. This date applies across the board to all qualifying recipients.
How to Defer OAS and Boost Your Payment
If you haven’t applied for OAS yet and are considering delaying for a higher monthly income, here’s how it works:
- You earn 0.6% extra for every month you delay past age 65
- The maximum deferral period is 60 months, or 5 years
- Deferring to age 70 earns a 36% increase
- You must opt out of automatic enrollment
Delaying can be a smart move if:
- You have other income sources
- You’re in good health and expect a long retirement
- You want to maximize guaranteed monthly income
Myths vs. Facts: What’s True About the $969 OAS?
| Claim | Reality |
|---|---|
| All seniors will receive $969/month | False – Only those who deferred qualify |
| A new CRA/OAS bonus is coming | False – No such bonus announced |
| OAS increased in July 2025 | True – 1% CPI boost added to monthly amounts |
| Everyone can reach $999+ monthly | False – Only with full deferral to age 70 |
| The $969 figure is a permanent raise | False – It’s case-specific, not universal |
The $969 OAS payment generating buzz in July 2025 is real, but it applies only to a select group of seniors who delayed claiming their pension and earned the full deferral bonus.
The majority of Canadians will receive the standard OAS amount of $734.94 (ages 65–74) or $808.44 (ages 75+), adjusted slightly for inflation.
To ensure you’re making the most of your Old Age Security, consider your retirement timeline, income sources, and whether deferral could benefit you in the long run. And as always, rely on official CRA or Service Canada updates to avoid misinformation.
FAQs
Will all Canadian seniors receive $969 OAS in July 2025?
No. Only those who deferred OAS until age 69 or 70 may receive up to $969 or more.
When is the OAS payment being made in July 2025?
The CRA will issue the OAS payment on July 29, 2025, for all eligible recipients.
Can I still defer my OAS payments?
Yes. If you haven’t started OAS yet, you can defer up to age 70 and receive a 36% higher monthly pension.