Official OAS Payment Increase (October to December 2026): Rates, Maximums, and Eligibility
Comprehensive Guide to the 1.4% Quarterly Old Age Security Adjustments, Payment Dates, Recovery Tax Thresholds, and GIS Integration
Last Updated Date: October 1, 2026
Information Source: Government of Canada Official OAS Payment Amounts (Canada.ca)
Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has officially confirmed a 1.4% upward adjustment for Old Age Security (OAS) benefit payments covering the October to December 2026 quarter. Driven by shifts in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), this quarterly indexation ensures that retirement funds keep pace with economic changes, directly supporting millions of Canadian seniors aged 65 and older.
New OAS Maximum Monthly Amounts: October to December 2026
The quarterly adjustment raises baseline maximum pension amounts. Seniors who have maintained a full 40 years of residence in Canada after turning 18 qualify for these full baseline payouts:
| Age Group | Previous Maximum (July–Sept 2026) | New Official Maximum (Oct–Dec 2026) | Monthly Increase | Estimated Annualized Pension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ages 65 to 74 | $751.97 | $762.50 | +$10.53 | ~$9,150 |
| Ages 75 and Over (10% Top-Up) | $827.17 | $838.75 | +$11.58 | ~$10,065 |
Remaining 2026 OAS Payment Schedule
Mark your calendars for the upcoming autumn and winter direct deposit or check distribution dates:
- October Payment: October 28, 2026
- November Payment: November 27, 2026
- December Payment: December 23, 2026 (early distribution for holidays)
OAS Recovery Tax (Clawback) Thresholds for 2026
While OAS is a universal pension, it is subject to a recovery tax if an individual’s net world income exceeds specific government-mandated ceilings:
- Maximum Income Limit (Ages 65–74): $152,062 (OAS is completely phased out past this point).
- Maximum Income Limit (Ages 75+): $157,923 (OAS is completely phased out past this point).

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