Who is Eligible for the Old Age Security Pension?

According to Services Canada, this depends on your age and your years of residence in Canada.

If you fall into either of the categories below, you may be eligible to receive the Old Age Security pension:

Category 1 - People living in Canada

• You are 65 or older.
• You live in Canada and are a Canadian citizen or a legal resident at the time your pension is approved.
• You lived in Canada for at least 10 years after reaching age 18.

Category 2 - People living outside Canada

• You are 65 or older.
• You left the country and you were a Canadian citizen or a legal resident of Canada when you left.
• You lived in Canada for at least 20 years after reaching age 18.

Note: As of July 1, 2013, Canadian seniors may choose to postpone receiving their Old Age Security for up to 5 years, resulting in a higher benefit later. You can elect to postpone OAS if you have already started to receive it. If you have been receiving your pension for less than six months, you may provide a written request to Service Canada to cancel your OAS pension. Caution: You will be required to repay the full amount of your OAS pension and any related benefits you received within six months from the day your cancellation request is granted. Speak with your tax professional to plan the correct options for you.