January 25: Canada CPP 2026 Dates, OAS Increase Set for January 28
Canadians tracking cpp payment dates 2026 should circle January 28 as the first deposit of the year. Old Age Security will rise 0.3% for January to March, while CPP enhancement continues to lift maximum pensions for eligible contributors. Together, these updates shape cash flow at month end, when many bills come due. We explain what the timing means for budgets, how the OAS increase 2026 affects income, and how CPP choices can support a steady plan in Canada.
January 28 Deposit: What to Expect
Service Canada schedules show the first 2026 deposits are set for Tuesday, January 28, with CPP and OAS expected the same day. Reports also confirm a 0.3% OAS adjustment for the quarter, supporting disposable income at month end. See confirmation here: source. For cpp payment dates 2026 beyond January, expect late‑month timing, but always verify before setting automatic payments.
Direct deposit usually posts the same day, while cheques can take longer. Log in to your online banking and My Service Canada Account to confirm account numbers, name spellings, and deposit preferences. Set alerts for January 28 and keep a one week cash buffer. If cpp payments 2026 do not appear by evening, contact your financial institution before calling Service Canada.
OAS Increase Q1 2026 and Clawback Planning
OAS is indexed quarterly to inflation, and the January to March 2026 rate rises 0.3%. That modest lift can help with utilities, groceries, and prescriptions that renew at month end. For context on how the OAS program works and why it adjusts, review this explainer: source. Keep records of deposits to track how the increase compounds over the quarter.
Higher OAS can raise income used to calculate the recovery tax. Consider tax‑efficient moves like drawing from a TFSA first, splitting eligible pension income, planning RRSP withdrawals in lower‑income years, or giving appreciated securities to charity. These steps can help manage oas payment dates 2026 cash flow while limiting clawback exposure and smoothing taxes across the year.
CPP Enhancements and Retirement Decisions
CPP enhancement adds contributions on top of the base plan and expands the earnings range that counts. Over time, this raises the maximum pension for those who paid the additional amounts at required levels. Your actual payment depends on your work history and age when you start CPP. For cpp payment dates 2026, the key is aligning higher income with monthly needs.
You can begin CPP any month from 60 to 70. Starting earlier means a lower monthly amount for life, while delaying raises it permanently. Run break‑even scenarios, pair CPP with OAS and personal savings, and plan around fixed bills that clear after month end. This keeps the January 28 deposit and future dates in sync with your budget.
Final Thoughts
Here is the bottom line for Canadian retirees and near‑retirees. The first 2026 CPP and OAS deposits arrive on January 28, with OAS up 0.3% for the first quarter. CPP enhancement continues to lift maximum benefits for eligible contributors, but your results depend on earnings history and your chosen start age. Confirm direct deposit details now, set account alerts, and keep a small cash buffer in case posting times vary. Review your withdrawal plan to reduce potential OAS recovery tax, and consider coordinating CPP timing with fixed monthly bills. Revisit your plan each quarter as rates, expenses, and benefits change. Mark the calendar for cpp payment dates 2026 and align your budget to those reliable inflows.
FAQs
Are CPP and OAS both paid on January 28, 2026?
Yes. The first 2026 deposit date is Tuesday, January 28, and both CPP and OAS are scheduled that day. OAS also rises 0.3% for January to March. For cpp payment dates 2026 after January, Service Canada typically uses late‑month dates, but always confirm the posted schedule.
How big is the OAS increase 2026 and how long does it last?
The OAS increase 2026 for the first quarter is 0.3%, effective from January through March. OAS is indexed every quarter to reflect inflation. New rates will be set for April, July, and October. Watch your statements to see the exact dollar impact for your age band.
What should I do if my deposit does not arrive on January 28?
Check online banking first. Direct deposits usually post the same day, but processing can vary by institution. Confirm your account details in My Service Canada Account. If nothing appears by evening, contact your bank. If the bank has no record, then call Service Canada with your SIN and claim details ready.
When will the full cpp payment dates 2026 and OAS schedule be available?
Service Canada publishes the yearly schedule in advance and updates it if needed. January 28 is the first confirmed date. Future dates typically fall late in each month. Check official Service Canada pages and your My Service Canada Account for updates before setting automatic transfers or bill payments.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.
