In a major update for Canadian retirees, a new pension plan for seniors begins its rollout in November 2025. This initiative aims to provide enhanced monthly payments, updated eligibility rules, and a clearer payment schedule.
In this article you’ll find all the details: the payment amounts, the eligibility criteria, and the exact deposit dates so you know when to expect your funds. Key terms: senior pension, payment schedule, eligibility rules, monthly deposit, retirement income support.
What’s Changing for Seniors in November 2025
The government is introducing an expanded pension framework designed to support Canadians aged 65 and over.
Although core programs like the Old Age Security (OAS) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) remain in place, this new plan essentially overlays additional support, indexed for inflation, and intended to guarantee a more predictable monthly income. The plan features:
- A standard base pension amount distributed monthly starting November 2025.
- Eligibility criteria streamlined for seniors with low or moderate income.
- A definitive payment schedule, with deposits around the end of each month.
Payment Amounts & Schedule
Here is how the payments break down under the new pension plan:
| Component | Standard Monthly Amount | Annual Equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base senior pension (starting Nov 2025) | ~$735 | ~$8,820 | For individuals aged 65–74 with income below threshold |
| Enhanced pension for 75+ age group | ~$808 | ~$9,696 | Higher rate for older seniors |
| Combined support for low-income seniors (with supplements) | Up to ~$1,433 or more | Up to ~$17,196+ | Includes CPP, OAS, and supplements |
| Payment dates | Nov 26, 2025 for OAS/CPP; new pension aligned | — | Monthly thereafter around same date |
The payment schedule going forward will align seniors’ deposits on a consistent day near the end of each month, e.g., for November the deposit is expected around November 26, 2025.
Eligibility: Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for this new senior pension plan, the following criteria apply:
- Must be aged 65 or older for base pension; the 75+ age group qualifies for enhanced amounts.
- Must reside in Canada and have been a resident for the required number of years as defined by OAS rules.
- Income must be under the income-threshold for receiving full benefits (otherwise the amount reduces).
- Must have filed their 2024 income tax return and declared all required income to determine eligibility.
- Seniors already receiving CPP or OAS continue to do so; this new plan supplements those programs rather than replaces them.
What You Should Do Next
To make sure you receive the first payment in November 2025:
- Verify your direct deposit information is correct with the CRA or Service Canada.
- Confirm your income tax filing for 2024 is complete and processed.
- Mark November 26, 2025 (or the last week of November) on your calendar as your expected deposit date.
- If you are close to 75 years old, check how the enhanced-rate eligibility may apply to you.
- Review your household income to see if you qualify for the higher-tier support under the combined supplement option.
The November 2025 launch of a new pension plan for seniors offers a stronger, more predictable financial footing for Canada’s retirees.
With clear monthly payments, enhanced amounts for older age groups, and a confirmed deposit schedule around November 26, seniors can plan ahead with confidence.
By ensuring your tax filings are in order, banking info updated, and eligibility criteria met, you will be well-positioned to receive your full benefit when it arrives.
FAQs
When will I receive the first payment under the new senior pension plan?
You can expect the first deposit around November 26, 2025, with subsequent payments occurring monthly thereafter.
How much will I receive each month from this new plan?
Standard monthly amounts begin around $735 for most seniors aged 65–74, and around $808 for those 75 +. Additional supplements based on other benefits and income may raise the total.
Do I need to apply for this new pension plan?
No separate application is required if you already receive OAS or CPP and meet the criteria. Just ensure your residency and income tax filings are up to date.
