Canadian seniors often depend on Old Age Security (OAS) as part of their retirement income. This monthly benefit helps older adults manage living costs. Over time, OAS payments increase to match inflation.

In July 2025, many people saw posts online saying seniors will now get $969 per month. This caused confusion. People started asking if $969 is the new OAS rate. But this amount is not a new fixed payment from the government. Let’s understand what this figure really means.

What Is the $969 OAS Pension in July 2025?

The $969 OAS Pension is not a standard or new flat rate. It is not a one-time special increase either.

This amount is the result of two things:

1. A 1% increase due to inflation in July 2025.
2. A deferral bonus for those who delayed OAS payments until age 70.

Seniors who delay their OAS past age 65 get a higher amount every month. If someone delays it until age 70, they can receive up to 36% more than the regular rate.

So, when the July 2025 1% inflation boost is added to this bonus, it brings the monthly total close to $969. But not every senior will receive this amount. It only applies to those who qualify for the deferral bonus and the latest increase.

Quick Details About the $969 OAS in July 2025

Feature	Details
Title	$969 OAS Pension in July 2025
Country	Canada
Month	July
Year	2025
Program	Old Age Security (OAS)
Authority	CRA / Service Canada
Amount	Up to $969/month
Base Amount (Age 65–74)	$734.94/month
Base Amount (Age 75+)	$808.44/month
Deferral Bonus	0.6% per month (up to 36% at age 70)
Payment Date	29th July 2025
Eligibility	Age 65+, 10+ years residency in Canada
Website	www.canada.ca

How Does the $969 Payment Work?

Let’s look at an example to understand how someone may reach the $969 amount.

Suppose a person turned 65 in July 2020 but chose to wait and start OAS in July 2025 at age 70.

Here’s how their payment could be calculated:

Detail	Amount
OAS in June 2025	$727.67
OAS in July 2025 (1% raise)	$734.94
36% Bonus on June 2025 OAS	$727.67 x 36% = $989.63
36% Bonus on July 2025 OAS	$734.94 x 36% = $999.52
If deferred till age 69	About $946.61/month

So yes, someone could get close to or slightly above $969/month if they delayed their OAS until 69 or 70.

But remember: this amount is not given to all seniors. It is only for those who choose to wait.

OAS Eligibility Rules for 2025

Basic OAS Eligibility

To get the regular OAS benefit, you must:

• Be at least 65 years old.
• Live in Canada.
• Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18.
• Meet the income rules set by the government.

Who Can Get the $969 Amount?

To qualify for the $969 per month amount:

• You must meet the basic eligibility rules.
• You must delay your OAS to age 69 or 70.
• You should qualify for the maximum regular OAS.
• You must qualify for the full deferral bonus (up to 36%).

So, the $969 is only possible for those who wait and meet all these conditions.

When Will the July 2025 OAS Payment Be Sent?

OAS payments follow a fixed monthly schedule. The $969 amount is not a special or extra payment. It is simply your regular OAS payment if you qualify for the highest rate.

For July 2025, the payment will be made on:

29th July 2025

Make sure your bank account details are up to date with CRA or Service Canada to avoid delays.

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