Recent claims suggest a $2,254 Old Age Security (OAS) payment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in December 2024. While this figure has generated excitement among seniors, it’s important to separate fact from speculation.
Here’s everything you need to know about OAS payments, eligibility, and additional benefits.
The Reality of the $2,254 OAS Payment
The CRA has not officially announced a $2,254 OAS payment for December 2024. The maximum monthly OAS payments remain significantly lower than this rumored figure, even when combined with additional benefits like the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). Here’s a breakdown of current OAS payments:
| Recipient Group | Maximum Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Seniors (Age 65–74) | $727.67 |
| Seniors (Age 75 and older) | $800.44 (10% bonus) |
Even when combined with GIS or survivor allowances, the total is unlikely to reach $2,254 for most beneficiaries. Claims circulating on social media appear to be unfounded.
Regular OAS and Additional Payments
The Old Age Security (OAS) program provides monthly benefits to seniors aged 65 and older. Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), OAS does not require prior contributions, making it accessible to all eligible Canadians. In addition to the base payment:
- GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement): Offers additional financial support for low-income seniors, potentially adding over $1,000 monthly for those in need.
- Allowance for the Survivor: Provides further support for eligible widowed seniors.
Eligibility for OAS Payments
To qualify for OAS and related benefits, you must meet specific criteria:
- Residency: Must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18.
- Age: Payments start at age 65, but you can delay until age 70 to receive increased amounts.
- Income: Total income must be below $148,451 annually for basic OAS eligibility. High earners may face reduced benefits due to the clawback policy.
What About the $2,254 Rumor?
The claimed $2,254 payment may reflect speculative scenarios where GIS and OAS are combined for low-income seniors. However, this figure is not standard and depends on individual circumstances, including income, marital status, and supplementary benefits.
OAS Payment Schedule for December 2024
The CRA typically releases OAS and CPP payments toward the end of each month. For December 2024, the payment date is expected to be December 20, 2024. Here’s the standard schedule:
| Benefit | Payment Date (December 2024) |
|---|---|
| OAS | December 20, 2024 |
| CPP | December 20, 2024 |
How to Claim OAS Payments
If you’re already enrolled in the OAS program, no action is needed. Payments are automatically deposited into your account. New applicants should follow these steps:
- Ensure Eligibility: Verify your age, residency, and income criteria.
- Automatic Enrollment: Most Canadians are automatically enrolled and notified by Service Canada before their 65th birthday.
- Manual Application:
- Online: Apply via your My Service Canada Account (MSCA).
- Mail: Download and submit the Application for OAS Pension form to your local Service Canada office.
- Direct Deposit: Set up direct deposit through Service Canada to ensure timely payments.
Fact Check: Is the $2,254 Payment Real?
There is no official confirmation from CRA or Service Canada about a fixed $2,254 OAS payment for all recipients in December 2024. Current maximum OAS benefits, even with GIS or survivor allowances, fall short of this amount. Seniors should rely on official government sources for accurate information.
Additional Tips for Maximizing OAS Benefits
- Delay Payments: Postpone OAS until age 70 to receive higher monthly amounts.
- Apply for GIS: Check your eligibility for supplementary income support if your income is low.
- Monitor Updates: Regularly check official CRA and Service Canada websites for announcements.
- Seek Advice: Consult a financial advisor for strategies to optimize retirement income.
The $2,254 OAS payment rumor is not supported by official announcements. While seniors can expect their regular OAS and CPP payments on December 20, 2024, those needing additional support may qualify for GIS or other benefits. Always verify claims through trusted sources like the CRA or Service Canada to avoid misinformation.
