$987.70 + $28.30 Pension Boost in March 2025 – Who Qualifies? Check Payment Date

Introduction

Seniors in Canada can expect an increase in their pension benefits in March 2025, with a boost of $28.30 added to the $987.70 monthly pension. This increase is part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting retirees by adjusting payments in line with inflation and cost-of-living increases.

In this article, we will discuss who qualifies, when to expect payments, and how this boost impacts pensioners. Additionally, we provide a payment schedule, key details, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Who Qualifies for the Pension Boost in March 2025?

To qualify for the $987.70 + $28.30 pension boost, recipients must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be 65 years or older
    • The pension increase applies to Old Age Security (OAS) recipients who meet the age requirement.
  2. Be a Canadian resident
    • You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after turning 18.
  3. Currently receiving OAS payments
    • This increase is automatically applied to eligible OAS recipients.
  4. Income Threshold
    • The pension increase is available to all OAS recipients, but clawbacks may apply if your income exceeds the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) threshold.
$987.70 + $28.30 Pension Boost in March 2025 – Who Qualifies Check Payment Date
$987.70 + $28.30 Pension Boost in March 2025 – Who Qualifies Check Payment Date

Breakdown of Pension Increase

CategoryCurrent Monthly Amount (2024)Increase (March 2025)New Monthly Amount (2025)
OAS Pension$987.70+$28.30$1,016.00
GIS (if eligible)Variable based on incomeAdjusted for COLAVariable
Total Pension PaymentVaries+$28.30Varies

March 2025 Pension Payment Date

The monthly pension payments are scheduled for March 27, 2025. Payments are typically made on the third-to-last banking day of each month.

Here is the payment schedule for early 2025:

MonthPayment Date
JanuaryJanuary 29, 2025
FebruaryFebruary 26, 2025
MarchMarch 27, 2025
AprilApril 28, 2025

Payments are directly deposited into recipients’ bank accounts or sent via cheque if no direct deposit is set up.

$987.70 + $28.30 Pension Boost in March 2025 – Who Qualifies Check Payment Date
$987.70 + $28.30 Pension Boost in March 2025 – Who Qualifies Check Payment Date

How to Apply for OAS and Receive the Increase

If you are already receiving OAS, you do not need to apply—the increase will be applied automatically. However, if you are turning 65 in 2025, you should apply 6 months before your 65th birthday.

Steps to Apply:

  1. Online Application:
    • Visit My Service Canada Account (MSCA) and complete the OAS application.
  2. By Mail:
    • Download the OAS application form from the Government of Canada website, complete it, and mail it to Service Canada.
  3. In-Person:
    • Visit a Service Canada office with your identification documents.

Benefits of the Pension Increase

  • Helps with rising living costs: The increase is adjusted to keep pace with inflation and cost-of-living expenses.
  • Supports low-income seniors: Those eligible for GIS may receive additional financial support.
  • No need to apply: The increase is automatic for eligible recipients.

Conclusion

The $987.70 + $28.30 pension boost in March 2025 is a welcome increase for Canadian seniors, helping to manage rising expenses. The increase applies automatically to eligible recipients, with payments scheduled for March 27, 2025.

FAQs

1. Will all OAS recipients receive the full $28.30 increase?

Yes, as long as they are already receiving OAS, they will automatically receive the full increase.

2. When will the increase take effect?

The new amount will be reflected in the March 27, 2025 payment.

3. How do I set up direct deposit for my pension?

You can set up direct deposit through My Service Canada Account (MSCA) or by contacting Service Canada.

4. Will this increase affect my GIS payments?

It may impact GIS eligibility if the additional amount raises your income above the GIS threshold.

5. Will OAS payments continue to increase in the future?

Yes, OAS payments are adjusted quarterly to account for inflation and cost-of-living changes.

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