With July 2025 approaching, many Canadian seniors are wondering if they might receive a surprise $2,455 deposit under the Old Age Security (OAS) program. While the typical OAS payment is monthly, there are cases where larger lump sums are paid—often due to retroactive benefits or the addition of the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). In this article, we’ll walk through OAS eligibility, how payment amounts work, what can trigger a $2,455 deposit, and how to avoid common application mistakes.
Table of Contents
Overview
Old Age Security (OAS) is a monthly benefit provided to Canadians aged 65 and over. It’s not based on employment history or contributions, making it one of the most accessible retirement income programs in the country. OAS payments are adjusted quarterly based on inflation, helping seniors keep up with the cost of living.
For 2025, the maximum standard monthly OAS payment is $727.67 for those aged 65 to 74, and $800.44 for seniors aged 75 or older. For low-income seniors, the GIS can be added, boosting the monthly income even further.
Eligibility
To qualify for OAS, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 65 years old
- Be a Canadian citizen or legal resident
- Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18
For a full OAS pension, 40 years of Canadian residency after age 18 is usually required. If you’ve lived in Canada for less time, you might receive a partial pension based on how many years you’ve resided.
Payment
The next OAS payment is scheduled for July 27, 2025. Payments are generally made on the last Wednesday of each month. Seniors who have signed up for direct deposit will receive funds directly into their bank accounts on this date.
To avoid delays, make sure your banking information is accurate in your My Service Canada Account.
LumpSum
Wondering how a $2,455 payment could happen when the standard monthly OAS is under $800? Here’s how:
Retroactive Payments
If you delay applying for OAS after turning 65, you could qualify for up to 12 months of retroactive payments. For example, if you’re eligible for $727 per month and your application is approved 10 months late, you could receive a lump sum around $7,270 covering that period.
GIS Additions
If you’re approved for GIS benefits along with OAS, your monthly income could increase significantly. In some cases, seniors may receive retroactive GIS payments bundled with their OAS deposit, causing a one-time deposit of $2,455 or more.
Payment Adjustments
Sometimes, Service Canada issues adjustments or corrections to previous underpayments, which could add a one-time bonus to your monthly deposit.
Deferral
Seniors who don’t need OAS right away can choose to defer receiving it until as late as age 70. Doing so increases the monthly amount by 0.6 percent for each month delayed. That’s a 36 percent boost if you defer the full five years.
Deferring is a personal decision. It means you’ll receive more later, but you won’t get anything until you start payments. For healthy seniors with other income sources, this strategy can be beneficial.
Mistakes
Here are some common errors to avoid when applying for OAS:
- Missing documents like proof of age or SIN
- Incorrect or incomplete residency history
- Not checking for GIS eligibility
- Forgetting to update banking details, delaying payments
Always double-check your application and consider contacting Service Canada for guidance.
Apply
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply:
- Check Eligibility – Confirm your age, residency, and income level
- Gather Documents – SIN, birth certificate, and proof of residency
- Apply Online or by Mail – Use My Service Canada Account or mail in the form
- Track Status – Log into your account to follow your application progress
- Set Up Direct Deposit – Ensure you receive payments promptly
Resources
Helpful resources for Canadian seniors:
- Service Canada Seniors Portal – Full details on pensions and benefits
- CRA Tax Credits – Find out which tax breaks are available to you
- Retirement Planning Tools – Offered by provinces to support financial literacy
Larger OAS deposits like the $2,455 amount may not apply to every senior, but they are real and often the result of retroactive or GIS payments. The key is knowing how the system works and staying up to date with your application and account details.
FAQs
Why did I get a $2,455 OAS deposit?
You likely received retroactive OAS or GIS payments.
What’s the max OAS monthly payment in 2025?
Up to $727.67 (65-74) or $800.44 (75+).
When is the next OAS payment?
July 27, 2025 is the next scheduled payment date.
Can I defer OAS payments?
Yes, up to age 70, increasing benefits by 36%.
How do I apply for OAS?
Apply online via My Service Canada Account or by mail.