CRA Confirms $3,716 Monthly Pension in April 2025: If you’ve heard the buzz about a $3,716 monthly pension for Canadian seniors in April 2025, you’re not alone. Many seniors and soon-to-be retirees are wondering if this amount is real, who qualifies, and how they can get the most out of their retirement benefits.

Let’s break it down in simple terms and help you understand exactly where this number comes from, who might qualify, and what steps you can take to maximize your retirement income.
CRA Confirms $3,716 Monthly Pension in April 2025
Benefit Program | Maximum Monthly Amount (April 2025) | Eligibility Criteria | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) | $1,433.00 | Based on contributions from work history | Varies by individual |
Old Age Security (OAS) | $727.67 (ages 65–74), $800.44 (75+) | Resident of Canada 10+ years after age 18 | Subject to income limits |
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) | Up to $1,086.88 | Low-income OAS recipients | Income-tested |
Allowance | Up to $1,381.90 | Aged 60–64, spouse/common-law partner of GIS recipient | Based on combined household income |
Allowance for the Survivor | Up to $1,647.34 | Aged 60–64, low-income surviving spouse/partner | Based on income |
The $3,716 monthly pension is not guaranteed for all Canadian seniors. However, through careful planning and maximizing eligibility for CPP, OAS, and GIS, many seniors can approach this amount. Knowing the rules, planning ahead, and leveraging available benefits can help you enjoy a financially secure retirement.
What Is the $3,716 Pension Everyone’s Talking About?
The $3,716 figure isn’t a single pension. It’s a combined total that could represent the maximum monthly income a senior could receive from multiple government retirement programs. Only some seniors will qualify for all three major benefits—CPP, OAS, and GIS—at the maximum levels.
Let’s take a closer look.
The Three Core Programs That Build the Pension
1. Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
The CPP is money you get back based on what you contributed during your working years. The more you earned and contributed, the higher your CPP will be.
- Maximum monthly payment (2025): $1,433.00
- Average payment for new recipients: Usually around $900
Not everyone qualifies for the maximum. You’d need to have worked and contributed the maximum amount for about 39 years.
2. Old Age Security (OAS)
The OAS is a monthly payment for seniors aged 65 and older, regardless of work history, as long as you’ve lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18.
- Ages 65–74: Up to $727.67/month
- Ages 75 and over: Up to $800.44/month
If your annual income is too high, some or all of your OAS may be clawed back.
3. Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
The GIS is an extra monthly benefit for low-income seniors who receive OAS. It’s not taxed and can add a significant boost to your pension.
- Maximum monthly amount (single senior): $1,086.88
- Married or common-law partners: Up to $654.23 each
This benefit is income-tested, so the lower your income, the more you could receive.
4. Allowance and Allowance for the Survivor
These are lesser-known programs for people aged 60 to 64:
- Allowance: For those married to or in a common-law relationship with a GIS recipient.
- Allowance for the Survivor: For low-income individuals whose spouse or partner has passed away.
These programs bridge the income gap until the recipient qualifies for OAS at age 65.
How Do You Reach the $3,716 Monthly Pension?
Here’s an example for a single senior aged 65–74 who qualifies for the maximum in all three major programs:
- CPP: $1,433.00
- OAS: $727.67
- GIS: $1,086.88
- Total: $3,247.55/month
So where does the $3,716 figure come in?
It’s likely that this number includes additional private or employer pensions, personal savings, or a unique scenario (e.g., a senior aged 75+ with survivor benefits or deferred OAS). But as far as government benefits go, $3,247.55 is the typical maximum from the big three.
How to Maximize Your Retirement Pension in Canada
Here are a few smart steps you can take to increase your retirement income:
Check Your CPP Contributions
Log in to your online government account and review your contribution history. If you have gaps, consider making voluntary contributions if eligible.
Defer Your OAS
Delaying your OAS past age 65 increases your monthly payment by 0.6% for each month you wait—up to 36% more if you delay until age 70.
Reduce Your Taxable Income
Keeping your income low in retirement can help you qualify for GIS and avoid OAS clawbacks.
Apply Early and Correctly
Make sure to apply for OAS and GIS about six months before you turn 65. For CPP, you can start as early as 60, but the amount will be reduced.
Speak to a Retirement Planner
A licensed financial advisor can help you combine private pensions, RRSPs, and government benefits in the most tax-efficient way.
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FAQs About CRA Confirms $3,716 Monthly Pension in April 2025
Q: Is the $3,716 pension real?
It is real in some specific cases—but it’s a combined total from several benefits, not a single pension.
Q: Can I get CPP and OAS together?
Yes, most seniors receive both.
Q: What is the average CPP payment?
The average is around $900 per month, but this varies.
Q: Do I need to apply for GIS separately?
Yes. When you apply for OAS, you can also apply for GIS if eligible.
Q: Does working after 65 affect my benefits?
Yes. Any income you earn after 65 can reduce GIS and trigger OAS clawbacks.