The Allowance and the Allowance for the Survivor
The Old Age Security program
The Old Age Security (OAS) program is the cornerstone of Canada's retirement income system. It is best known for its monthly pension for people 65 and older.
OAS is different from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). The CPP is funded through contributions paid by workers and employers, and provides benefits to workers and their families. The OAS is funded from general government revenues.
OAS and the CPP combine with company pensions and private retirement investments to provide Canadians with one of the best retirement income systems in the world.
This booklet describes the Allowance and the Allowance for the survivor.
The OAS also offers:
The Old Age Security pension
The Old Age Security pension is paid each month to most people over 65 who meet the residence requirements. For more information, see the booklet Old Age Security Pension.
The Guaranteed Income Supplement
The Guaranteed Income Supplement provides extra money to pensioners with low incomes. To qualify for the Supplement, you must also be receiving the Old Age Security pension. For more information, see the booklet Guaranteed Income Supplement.