The Government of Canada has confirmed that the final Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) payments of 2025 will be issued on December 22, 2025. These year-end payments are significant, marking the last deposits before 2026 CPP and OAS increases come into effect on January 1, 2026. For millions of Canadians, including retirees, people with disabilities, surviving spouses, and contributors, these benefits provide essential financial support and security.

Understanding how CPP works, when payments are made, and how benefits grow is crucial—not only for retirees but also for newcomers, temporary workers, international students, and young Canadians planning their long-term financial future.


What Is the Canada Pension Plan?

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a federal social insurance program designed to provide monthly income during retirement, as well as financial support for disability, survivor benefits, and death benefits. Contributions to CPP are mandatory for most employed and self-employed individuals in Canada (except Quebec, which has the Quebec Pension Plan).

Key benefits of CPP include:

  • Retirement pensions

  • Disability benefits

  • Survivor pensions

  • Children’s benefits

  • Death benefits

Contributions are automatically deducted from employment income, with employers matching employee contributions. Self-employed individuals pay both portions via their tax filings. Notably, eligibility for CPP is not dependent on Canadian citizenship, meaning anyone working and contributing in Canada earns entitlement to benefits.


Understanding Old Age Security (OAS) and How It Differs from CPP

Old Age Security (OAS) is a federal benefit funded through general tax revenues rather than payroll contributions. Unlike CPP, OAS eligibility is based on age and residency, not employment history. Individuals may qualify for full or partial OAS depending on how long they have lived in Canada after age 18. OAS is taxable and may be subject to recovery tax for higher-income seniors.

Both CPP and OAS follow the same monthly payment schedule, with the December 22 deposit serving as the final 2025 payment.


December 22 CPP and OAS Payment

For 2025, the final CPP and OAS payments will be deposited on December 22. Payments are issued by Service Canada and deposited directly into recipients’ bank accounts. For those receiving cheques, postal delivery times may vary.

These payments often arrive during a period of higher household expenses, including utilities, food, housing, and seasonal costs, making this year-end payment particularly important for financial stability.


CPP Payment Dates for 2026

The upcoming CPP payments in 2026 are scheduled as follows:

  • January 28, 2026

  • February 25, 2026

  • March 27, 2026

  • April 28, 2026

  • May 27, 2026

  • June 26, 2026

  • July 29, 2026

  • August 27, 2026

  • September 25, 2026

  • October 28, 2026

  • November 26, 2026

  • December 22, 2026

Planning ahead for these payments can help manage expenses and retirement income more effectively.


CPP Eligibility and How Payments Are Calculated

To qualify for CPP retirement benefits, individuals must:

  • Be at least 60 years old

  • Have made at least one valid CPP contribution

CPP calculations depend on career earnings, contribution limits, and retirement age:

  • Retirement at 60 reduces payments by 0.6% per month

  • Standard retirement at 65 provides full benefits

  • Deferring until 70 increases monthly payments by up to 42%

The maximum monthly CPP retirement benefit in 2025 is $1,433, but most receive an average of $899.67. CPP benefits are indexed annually for inflation, meaning payments increase each year to maintain purchasing power. The December 22, 2025 payment reflects 2025 rates, while 2026 payments will include higher, inflation-adjusted amounts.


Why CPP Matters for Newcomers and Young Canadians

Newcomers, temporary workers, and young Canadians often underestimate the long-term value of CPP contributions. Consistent participation ensures eligibility for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits, providing a reliable income source in the future. Canada also has social security agreements with other countries, allowing contributions made abroad to count toward CPP eligibility.


How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Planning your financial future in Canada goes hand-in-hand with understanding your immigration options. ICC Immigration helps newcomers, temporary workers, and prospective residents secure a stable pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) without relying on uncertain methods like asylum claims.

Our services include:

  • Permanent Residency Applications: Through Express Entry, PNPs, and other pathways, we ensure smooth processing.

  • Work Permits and Study Permits: Establish your career or education in Canada and build toward PR eligibility.

  • Family Sponsorships: Reunite with loved ones while securing PR status.

  • Expert Legal Advice: Navigate Canada’s complex immigration policies with professional guidance.

By combining financial literacy, like understanding CPP and OAS, with the right immigration strategy, ICC Immigration helps you plan a secure future in Canada.


Take Control of Your Future

The December 22 CPP and OAS payments mark the end of 2025 and the start of higher, inflation-adjusted benefits in 2026. Whether you are a retiree, young worker, or newcomer, understanding CPP and integrating it into your long-term planning is critical.

At the same time, taking proactive steps toward Permanent Residency in Canada ensures stability, security, and opportunity for you and your family. ICC Immigration is here to guide you every step of the way.