In recent weeks, speculation has spread rapidly across Canada suggesting that pensioners might receive an extra OAS or CPP payment in August 2025. Social media chatter, viral blogs, and online discussions fueled the idea of a bonus top-up alongside regular deposits.
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has now clarified the situation: there are no additional payments scheduled for August. Seniors will continue to receive their regular monthly benefits on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
This article explains the truth behind the rumors, details of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS), eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and important reminders to avoid scams.
No Extra OAS or CPP Payments Confirmed
Despite the rumors, the CRA has only scheduled the regular August payments. Seniors will see deposits made as usual on August 28, 2025.
- OAS recipients aged 65 and over will receive their standard monthly pension.
- CPP recipients who contributed during their working years will also receive their expected payment.
There is currently no official plan for one-time top-ups or additional August payments.
Why the Rumors Started
Many Canadians believed extra support might arrive because of recent government programs aimed at addressing inflation and cost-of-living pressures. Initiatives such as grocery rebates, targeted credits, and cost-of-living relief created an expectation that seniors would automatically receive more support.
Unfortunately, misinformation spread through unverified news portals and fraudulent websites, misleading pensioners into thinking they needed to apply for a special benefit. These false claims not only spread confusion but also exposed vulnerable citizens to potential scams.
Understanding OAS and CPP Benefits
Old Age Security (OAS)
- A monthly payment for Canadians aged 65 and older.
- Based on residency, not employment history.
- Maximum payment (July–September 2025):
- $734.95/month for seniors aged 65–74.
- $808.45/month for seniors aged 75+.
- Income thresholds: Benefits are reduced if annual income exceeds $148,541 (65–74) or $154,196 (75+).
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
- A contributory program, based on work and contributions.
- Eligibility begins at age 60 (with reduced payments).
- Maximum monthly pension at age 65 in 2025: $1,433.
- Average monthly payment at age 65: Around $845.
August 2025 Payment Schedule
| Benefit | Payment Date | Maximum Monthly Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| OAS | August 28, 2025 | $734.95 (65–74), $808.45 (75+) | Based on age & residency |
| CPP | August 28, 2025 | $1,433 (maximum), $845 (average) | Based on contributions & age |
Eligibility Requirements
- OAS: Age 65+, with at least 10 years of Canadian residency after age 18 (40 years required for full pension).
- CPP: Must have made at least one valid contribution during working years; payment depends on earnings and contribution history.
Both benefits are taxable income, and OAS may be partially clawed back if income exceeds the annual threshold.
Why Extra Payments Were Expected
The strong belief in an additional payment reflects the financial struggles of many seniors. Rising rent, groceries, and medical costs have made life difficult, and any hint of relief attracts attention.
Advocacy groups continue to push for higher indexing and top-ups, but as of August 2025, no new payments have been announced.
Beware of Online Scams
Scammers are taking advantage of the rumors, circulating emails, phone calls, and fake websites urging seniors to “apply” for extra OAS or CPP payments. These scams often request:
- Personal identification details
- Banking information
- Upfront fees
The CRA will never ask for such details via email or phone. All benefits are deposited directly into bank accounts or sent by cheque if direct deposit is not set up.
What If Extra Payments Are Ever Approved?
If the government announces new OAS or CPP benefits in the future, seniors can expect:
- Automatic deposits into existing accounts—no separate application required.
- Official updates only through CRA or Government of Canada websites.
- No third-party involvement—payments are processed directly without external links.
The CRA has confirmed that there will be no extra OAS or CPP payments in August 2025. Eligible seniors will receive their usual deposits on August 28, 2025. While rising costs have fueled speculation and misinformation, pensioners should remain vigilant and rely only on official government communication.
If extra support is ever approved in the future, payments will be automatic and clearly announced. For now, Canadian seniors should plan around their regular monthly OAS and CPP benefits.
FAQs
Will there be any extra OAS or CPP payment in August 2025?
No. Only the regular payments scheduled for August 28, 2025 will be issued.
How much can seniors receive from OAS and CPP?
Maximum OAS: $734.95 (65–74) and $808.45 (75+). Maximum CPP: $1,433/month, with the average around $845/month.
What should I do if I see posts about applying for an extra payment?
Ignore them. These are scams. The CRA never requires separate applications for bonus payments unless officially announced.