The Canadian government, through the CRA, is offering dual financial support in April 2025 to help seniors manage the continued rise in essential living expenses. Eligible individuals will receive:
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Up to $1,700 in OAS payments (including GIS for low-income seniors)
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A one-time $650 Extra Help Payment to assist with inflation-related costs
These payments reflect Canada’s continued commitment to supporting older adults during economic uncertainty.
Quick Snapshot of the April 2025 Payments
| Payment Type | Amount / Details |
|---|---|
| OAS Monthly Payment | $727.67 (ages 65–74) / $800.44 (ages 75+) |
| Guaranteed Income Supplement | Up to $1,086.88/month (based on income/marital status) |
| Extra Help Payment (GST Relief) | $650 one-time (April 2025) |
| Eligibility Age | 65 and older |
| Income Threshold (OAS Clawback) | Below $86,912/year |
| CRA Payment Type | Direct deposit or mailed cheque |
| Application Needed? | No – all payments processed automatically if eligible |
What Is the $1,700 OAS Payment?
Old Age Security (OAS) is a core monthly benefit for Canadian seniors, adjusted quarterly to match inflation. In April 2025, eligible seniors will receive:
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$727.67/month (ages 65 to 74)
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$800.44/month (ages 75 and older)
Those with low income can also receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), which may add up to $1,086.88/month, pushing the total monthly support above $1,700.
What Is the $650 Extra Help Payment?
The one-time $650 Extra Help Payment is part of the GST Credit enhancement, introduced to ease inflationary pressure on essential spending.
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No application is needed
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Automatically sent to those receiving OAS, GIS, or GST Credit
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Issued through direct deposit or cheque by CRA
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Intended to cover food, heating, utility, and basic living costs in April 2025
Step-by-Step: How to Receive Both Payments
1. Confirm Eligibility
To receive these payments, ensure that you:
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Are 65+ years old
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Have lived in Canada for at least 10 years since age 18
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File your 2024 taxes to remain eligible
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Keep your annual income under $86,912 to avoid the OAS clawback
2. Apply for OAS and GIS (if not already enrolled)
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Use your My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
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Or submit a paper application at least 6 months before your 65th birthday
3. File Your 2024 Taxes
CRA uses your 2024 return to determine:
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Eligibility for GIS
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Eligibility for the GST Credit
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Whether OAS payments are subject to clawback
4. Update Your CRA Records
Ensure all details are accurate:
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Banking info for direct deposit
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Mailing address
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Marital and residency status
Pros and Cons of the April 2025 Payments
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Guaranteed support for eligible seniors | Income-tested — higher earners receive less or none |
| Quarterly inflation indexing for OAS | Clawback applies over $86,912 income threshold |
| No application needed for $650 payment | The $650 payment is one-time only |
| Helps with utilities, groceries, and rent | Requires tax filing and updated CRA info to qualify |
| Accessible to low- and moderate-income seniors | Not enough to cover all costs in high-expense provinces |
Why These Double Payments Matter
Inflation, particularly in food, utilities, and rent, continues to pressure seniors across Canada. According to Statistics Canada, food prices remain over 5% higher year-over-year, and rent increases continue to strain fixed-income households.
For many seniors, this $2,350 combined support in April 2025 could:
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Prevent missed rent or bill payments
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Provide funds for essential medications and healthcare
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Cover rising grocery and utility bills
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Help avoid debt and maintain independence
Additional Financial Aid Options for Seniors in 2025
Besides OAS and the GST Relief Payment, seniors should explore other federal and provincial support programs:
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Winter Fuel Payment: Up to $600 to assist with heating costs
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Cold Weather Payment: $25/week during severe weather periods
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Canada Workers Benefit (CWB): For low-income seniors who are still working
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Home Accessibility Tax Credit: Helps cover renovations for mobility or aging-in-place
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Provincial Supplements: Extra monthly payments vary by province
FAQs
Will Canadian seniors receive $2,350 in April 2025?
Yes, eligible seniors can receive a combined total of up to $2,350 in April 2025—this includes their monthly OAS + GIS payments and a one-time $650 Extra Help Payment from the CRA.
Is the $650 Extra Help Payment automatic?
Yes. If you already receive the GST Credit, OAS, or GIS, the $650 will be deposited automatically into your account. No separate application is required.
What is the OAS amount for April 2025?
The OAS amounts for April 2025 are:
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$727.67/month for seniors aged 65 to 74
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$800.44/month for seniors aged 75 and older
These rates include the 10% enhancement for those 75+.
Do I need to apply for the Extra Help Payment?
No. The $650 Extra Help Payment is issued automatically if you meet the criteria. There’s no form or registration process.
Can I receive GIS and OAS at the same time?
Yes. GIS is an additional monthly payment for low-income seniors who qualify for OAS. Many seniors receive both benefits together.
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