Estimate Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement using 2026 ESDC rates, the recovery-tax threshold, and the GIS income test.
Free tool
Estimated OAS + GIS
$728/ month
OAS: $728/mo
GIS: $0/mo
Annual: $8,732
Uses 2026 Q1 OAS rates ($727.67/mo at 65–74, $800.44/mo at 75+) and a simplified GIS clawback of 50 % of other income. Actual GIS clawback rates vary by income source (employment vs investment vs CPP) and have a small earned-income exemption ($5,000). For a precise calculation including the Allowance for survivors and the Old Age Security recovery tax, use Service Canada’s OAS payment estimator. CPP is separate and is calculated from your 35 best contributory years.
The three pillars of Canadian retirement
Pillar 1: OAS / GIS — universal, residency-based. Pillar 2: CPP / QPP — earnings-based, contributory. Pillar 3: Personal savings (RRSP / TFSA / FHSA / pensions). OAS replaces about 14 % of pre-retirement income; GIS lifts low-income seniors above poverty line; CPP replaces another 25–33 % up to the YMPE; the rest is on you.
Defer or take early?
OAS deferral past 65 adds 0.6 % per month (7.2 %/yr, max 36 % at 70). Worth it if you’re still working and would otherwise face the recovery tax, or if you have longevity in your family. CPP deferral is even more powerful (8.4 %/yr increase). For most Canadians who can afford to wait, deferring at least one of the two adds meaningful inflation-protected income for life.
Income splitting
After age 65, you can split eligible pension income (including RRIF withdrawals) with your spouse. This can save thousands in tax and preserve OAS by keeping each spouse’s individual income under the recovery-tax threshold.
This tool is for educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed Canadian healthcare professional. Read our full disclaimer.