Canada's Pension Plan and Canada Old Age Security Plan provide a guaranteed income for seniors. CPP has been in effect since 1966. The plan pays a retirement pension, as well as disability and survivor benefits. Canadians over the age of 18 and their employers pay into the plan. The amount of money you receive will depend on your income and years of employment. OAS provides a monthly payment to most Canadians aged 65 or older. If you live in Canada, you must be a Canadian citizen or legal resident. You must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years, after you turned 18. If you live outside Canada, you must have been a Canadian citizen or legal resident when you left the country, and you must have lived in Canada for at least 20 years, after you turned 18.
How to Apply for Canada Pension Plan
Step 1
Gather all of the necessary documents, and place them in front of you. You will only have 15 minutes to complete the on-line application.
Step 2
Access the CPP application form through the Service Canada Website. Complete the entire application and submit.
Step 3
Print a copy of your application. Sign and mail it to Service Canada.
How to Apply for the Old Age Security Pension
Step 1
Get an information kit and application form from your local Service Canada office or from their website. If you would prefer to have it mailed to you, contact Service Canada at their toll-free number.
Step 2
Gather the necessary documents. If you were born outside Canada or have lived outside the country for an extended period, since the age of 18, you will need to supply proof of legal status with citizenship or immigration papers.
Step 3
Compete the application, sign and return to Service Canada.
Tip
Call Service Canada toll-free at 1-800-277-9914 to receive an application in the mail.
Warning
If you are using a public computer to apply for CPP clear the browser's cache, and close the browser before shutting down.
Things You'll Need
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
SIN for spouse or common-law partner (optional)
Banking information (optional)
Computer with JavaScript enabled
Printer
Paper
Envelope
Stamp
Proof of legal Canadian status