Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re planning for retirement in Canada, one of the most common and confusing questions is: does OAS start at 65 or 67? The answer isn’t just a simple number—it depends on timing, personal choice, and how you want to structure your retirement income.
Old Age Security (OAS) is a cornerstone of Canada’s public pension system, yet many Canadians misunderstand when they can begin receiving it and whether the age has changed. With ongoing discussions about retirement policy, it’s easy to see why confusion persists.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about OAS eligibility, when payments start, whether age 67 applies, and how to make the smartest decision for your financial future.
Quick Facts About OAS in Canada
| Feature | Details |
| Standard OAS start age | 65 years |
| Option to delay | Up to age 70 |
| Maximum monthly increase | Up to 36% if delayed |
| Minimum residency requirement | 10 years in Canada after age 18 |
| Full pension eligibility | 40 years of residence |
| Tax status | Taxable income |
| Clawback threshold | Applies to higher-income seniors |
Does OAS Start at 65 or 67?
The clear and current answer is: OAS starts at age 65 in Canada.
There was a proposal years ago to gradually increase the eligibility age to 67. However, that change was later canceled. As of now—and for the foreseeable future—Canadians can begin receiving OAS at 65.
That said, you are not required to start at 65. You have the flexibility to delay your OAS payments, which can significantly increase your monthly benefit.
So while OAS does not automatically start at 67, some people effectively choose a later start age for financial reasons.
Why People Think OAS Starts at 67
The confusion comes from a policy announcement made in the early 2010s. The government at the time planned to gradually raise the OAS eligibility age from 65 to 67.
This change was meant to address longer life expectancy and sustainability concerns. However, a later government reversed the decision before it took effect.
As a result:
- The eligibility age remains 65
- No current law requires waiting until 67
- Discussions about future changes still appear occasionally in the news
Because of this history, many Canadians still search: does OAS start at 65 or 67, even though the official answer hasn’t changed.
Understanding When You Can Start OAS
Starting at Age 65
Age 65 is the standard starting point. If you begin receiving OAS at this age:
- You receive your full eligible amount (based on residency)
- Payments begin automatically in many cases
- You don’t receive any bonus for waiting
For many retirees, this is the simplest and most predictable option.
Delaying OAS Beyond 65
Even though the standard answer to does OAS start at 65 or 67 is 65, you can delay benefits voluntarily.
For every month you delay after 65, your OAS payment increases by 0.6%. That adds up to:
- 7.2% increase per year
- Up to 36% increase if you delay until age 70
This can make a significant difference over time, especially if you expect to live a long retirement.
Example: How Delaying Affects Your Payments
Let’s say your monthly OAS at age 65 is $700.
- At 66 → about $750
- At 67 → about $800
- At 70 → about $950
Delaying doesn’t just shift your income—it increases it permanently.
Who Should Start OAS at 65?
Starting at 65 may be the best choice if:
You need income right away
You plan to retire early
You have health concerns or shorter life expectancy
You prefer receiving benefits sooner rather than later
In these situations, waiting may not provide enough long-term benefit to justify the delay.
Who Should Consider Waiting Until 67 or Later?
Even though OAS doesn’t officially start at 67, delaying until that age can be a strategic decision.
You might benefit from waiting if:
You are still working at 65
You have other income sources
You expect to live well into your 80s or 90s
You want higher guaranteed income later
Delaying essentially acts like a built-in “income booster” for your later years.
How OAS Fits Into Your Retirement Plan
OAS is only one part of Canada’s retirement system. It works alongside:
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
Workplace pensions
Personal savings like RRSPs or TFSAs
Understanding does OAS start at 65 or 67 is important, but it’s even more critical to see how it fits into your overall financial picture.
For example:
- Taking OAS early while delaying CPP can balance income
- Delaying both OAS and CPP can maximize lifetime payouts
- Combining OAS with withdrawals from savings can optimize taxes
Each strategy depends on your personal situation.
OAS Clawback: What You Need to Know
OAS is subject to a recovery tax, often called the “clawback.”
If your annual income exceeds a certain threshold, your OAS payments are reduced.
Key points:
- The threshold changes yearly (around $80,000+ range)
- High-income seniors may lose part or all of their OAS
- Delaying OAS can sometimes reduce long-term clawback exposure
This is another reason why simply asking does OAS start at 65 or 67 isn’t enough—you need a strategy.
Residency Requirements for OAS
To qualify for OAS:
- You must be 65 or older
- You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18
To receive the full pension:
- You need 40 years of residency in Canada
If you have fewer years, you may receive a partial pension.
Common Misunderstandings About OAS
OAS Automatically Starts at 65 for Everyone
Not always. While many people are enrolled automatically, some must apply. It’s important to check your status before turning 65.
OAS and CPP Start Together
They don’t have to. CPP can start as early as 60 or as late as 70. OAS begins at 65 (or later if delayed).
Waiting Always Pays Off
Delaying increases your monthly payment, but it’s not always the best choice. Your health, income needs, and lifestyle goals matter more.
Practical Tips for Making the Right Decision
If you’re still wondering does OAS start at 65 or 67 and what you should do, consider these practical steps:
Review your total retirement income
Estimate your life expectancy realistically
Consider tax implications
Think about your spending needs in early vs. late retirement
Many Canadians also benefit from speaking with a financial planner before making a final decision.
Conclusion
So, does OAS start at 65 or 67? The official answer is clear: OAS starts at age 65 in Canada.
However, the real decision isn’t just about eligibility—it’s about timing. You have the flexibility to start at 65 or delay up to age 70, with meaningful financial consequences either way.
Understanding your personal situation, income needs, and long-term goals will help you make the best choice. OAS is more than just a monthly payment—it’s a key part of your retirement strategy & does oas start at 65 or 67.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does OAS start automatically at age 65?
In many cases, yes. Service Canada may automatically enroll you. However, some individuals need to apply, so it’s important to confirm ahead of time.
2. Is there any plan to move OAS to age 67?
Currently, no. While it was proposed in the past, the change was canceled. OAS still begins at 65.
3. Can I start OAS before age 65?
No. Unlike CPP, OAS cannot be started early. The earliest possible age is 65.
4. How much more do I get if I delay OAS?
You receive 0.6% more per month for each month you delay, up to a maximum increase of 36% at age 70.
5. Is OAS enough to live on in retirement?
For most Canadians, OAS alone is not sufficient. It is designed to supplement other income sources like CPP and personal savings and more & does oas start at 65 or 67.
