The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a key source of income for retired Canadians. If you’re retiring in 2025, you could be eligible to receive up to $1,433 per month depending on your earnings history and when you choose to start your payments. Whether you’re planning your retirement soon or helping a loved one, knowing how CPP works can help you make better financial decisions.
In this guide, we’ll explain who qualifies, how much you could receive, when payments arrive, and what’s new for 2025.
Overview
Topic | Details |
---|---|
Max Monthly CPP (2025) | $1,433 at age 65 |
Average CPP (Jan 2025) | $899.67 |
Earliest Start Age | 60 (with reduction) |
Delayed Start Age | Up to age 70 (with increase) |
Contribution Rates | 5.95% (employee/employer), 11.9% (self-employed) |
Payment Dates | Monthly, third-to-last business day |
Application Methods | Online (My Service Canada), or by mail |
Canada Pension Plan
The CPP is a federal pension plan designed to replace part of your employment income when you retire. It’s funded by contributions from employees, employers, and self-employed Canadians throughout their working years. It’s also tied to inflation, making it a reliable form of income for your later years.
Who Pays into CPP?
- If you’re employed: both you and your employer contribute 5.95%
- If you’re self-employed: you contribute the full 11.9%
- You contribute on annual earnings between $3,500 and a maximum ceiling
Who Is Eligible?
To receive CPP payments, you must:
- Be at least 60 years old
- Have made at least one valid contribution during your working life
The amount you receive depends on your income history, how many years you contributed, and your age when you start receiving benefits.
Payment Scenarios
- At age 65: Standard payment up to $1,433/month
- Before 65: 0.6% reduction per month early (up to 36% if you start at 60)
- After 65: 0.7% increase per month delayed (up to 42% boost at age 70)
CPP Payment Dates for 2025
Payments are issued on the third-to-last business day of each month:
- January 29
- February 26
- March 27
- April 28
- May 28
- June 26
- July 29
- August 27
- September 25
- October 29
- November 26
- December 22
Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your money, but mailed cheques are also available.
How to Apply
- Sign in to your My Service Canada Account
- Go to the CPP Retirement Pension section
- Complete and submit your application
- Receive confirmation and check your application status online
Apply by Mail
- Download the form ISP-1000
- Fill it out and mail it to the nearest Service Canada office
- Processing by mail can take longer — up to 120 days
Processing Times
- Online: Around 28 days
- Mail: Up to 4 months, depending on volume and location
2025 CPP Changes and Enhancements
Starting in 2025, CPP benefits are being enhanced to provide better income for future retirees:
- The income replacement rate is increasing from 25% to 33.33%
- A new second earnings ceiling of $81,200 has been added for higher-income earners
- If you earn between $71,300 and $81,200, you’ll contribute more — but also receive more later
These updates are designed to improve retirement security, especially for younger Canadians still in the workforce.
Tax Implications
CPP is taxable income. You’ll receive a T4A(P) form each year to report on your tax return.
You can request taxes to be deducted automatically from each payment to avoid owing a large amount at tax time.
Tips to Maximize Your CPP
- Delay your CPP start: Waiting until age 70 gives you a 42% higher monthly payment
- Track your contributions: Log into your My Service Canada Account to view your history
- Coordinate with OAS: Combine your CPP with Old Age Security for additional income
- Talk to a financial planner: They can help you decide when to start and how CPP fits with your full retirement plan
FAQs
When do CPP payments start in 2025?
CPP payments begin on the third-to-last business day each month.
How much CPP will I get at 65?
You could receive up to $1,433 monthly if you contributed enough.
Can I apply for CPP online?
Yes, through your My Service Canada Account at canada.ca.
Is CPP income taxable?
Yes, it’s taxable and must be reported on your annual return.
What’s the earliest age to get CPP?
You can start receiving CPP as early as age 60 with a reduction.