TORONTO, October 28, 2026 – According to the 2026 benefit payment calendar published by Service Canada, October 28 is this month’s scheduled payment date for the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS). Recipients who have registered for direct deposit will generally receive their payments on the same day, while those receiving cheques by mail may have to wait a few additional days.
CPP and OAS are often mentioned together and can easily be confused, but their eligibility requirements are different. CPP is primarily based on contributions made during a person’s working years, while OAS eligibility depends mainly on age and the number of years a person has lived in Canada.
CPP payment amounts are calculated based on factors such as an individual’s contribution history and the age at which they begin receiving benefits. Eligible individuals can start receiving CPP as early as age 60, although choosing to begin payments early will reduce the monthly amount.
OAS is primarily intended for people aged 65 and older who meet Canada’s residency requirements. Even individuals who have never worked in Canada or contributed to CPP may still qualify for OAS if they meet the relevant conditions.
For seniors who immigrated to Canada later in life, turning 65 does not automatically mean they qualify for OAS. Generally, applicants living in Canada must have resided in the country for at least 10 years after turning 18. Some individuals may also qualify under international social security agreements or other applicable provisions.
Low-income OAS recipients may also qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). GIS payments are calculated based on factors such as individual or combined spousal income, and not everyone receiving OAS is eligible for the supplement.
From October to December 2026, the maximum monthly OAS payment is $762.50 for individuals aged 65 to 74 and $838.75 for those aged 75 and older. Actual payment amounts may vary depending on residency history, income and other circumstances.
If CPP or OAS payments have not appeared in a bank account today, recipients can first check whether their direct deposit information is correct, whether their bank account remains active, and whether they have recently changed their address or payment method.
For those receiving benefits by mailed cheque, delivery may take longer than the official payment date.
If a payment remains missing, recipients can sign in to their My Service Canada Account to review payment records or call the Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security information line at 1-800-277-9914 for assistance.
The next regular CPP and OAS payment date is November 26.
（LJI by Yuanyuan）
