For most older adults in Canada, pensions and benefits are the foundation of financial security. They’re designed to ensure a basic income after retirement, but the system can be complex, with multiple programs, eligibility rules, and application steps.
The Main Pillars
Old Age Security (OAS): A monthly payment available to most people over 65, regardless of work history.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): Extra help for low-income seniors, tied to OAS.
Canada Pension Plan / Quebec Pension Plan (CPP/QPP): Earnings-based programs that workers and employers contribute to during employment.
Workplace pensions and private savings: For some, these add stability — but they’re not universal.
Where Confusion Happens
Different programs overlap but don’t always interact smoothly.
Application processes can be long, with deadlines and paperwork that trip people up.
Many seniors aren’t aware of additional benefits (provincial supplements, housing subsidies, or drug plans) they qualify for.
Why It Matters
Without clear understanding, people can miss out on income they’re entitled to — leaving them vulnerable to poverty, even when supports exist.
Making the System Work Better
Plain-language guides and proactive outreach.
Automatic enrollment where possible, to reduce unclaimed benefits.
Integrated service hubs that explain all options in one place.
Community navigators who can help seniors apply and follow up.
The Question
If pensions and benefits are the backbone of retirement security, then clarity and access are just as important as the payments themselves. Which leaves us to ask: how can we simplify and strengthen pension and benefit systems so every senior gets the support they’ve earned?
Understanding Pensions and Benefits
The Safety Net for Seniors
For most older adults in Canada, pensions and benefits are the foundation of financial security. They’re designed to ensure a basic income after retirement, but the system can be complex, with multiple programs, eligibility rules, and application steps.
The Main Pillars
Where Confusion Happens
Why It Matters
Without clear understanding, people can miss out on income they’re entitled to — leaving them vulnerable to poverty, even when supports exist.
Making the System Work Better
The Question
If pensions and benefits are the backbone of retirement security, then clarity and access are just as important as the payments themselves. Which leaves us to ask:
how can we simplify and strengthen pension and benefit systems so every senior gets the support they’ve earned?