Understand CPP Eligibility: Learn about Canada Pension Plan eligibility requirements, contribution periods, and how benefits are calculated. The CPP is a foundation of retirement income for most Canadians.

Apply for CPP Retirement Pension: Complete and submit an application for your CPP retirement pension. You can apply up to 12 months before you want your pension to start.

Understand OAS Eligibility: Learn about Old Age Security eligibility requirements based on age, Canadian legal status, and years of residence in Canada.

Apply for OAS: Complete and submit an application for Old Age Security benefits. Many Canadians are automatically enrolled, but it's important to verify your enrollment status.

Determine GIS Eligibility: Assess whether you qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement based on your income and OAS status. GIS is available to low-income OAS recipients.

Apply for GIS: Complete and submit an application for the Guaranteed Income Supplement if you qualify. You'll need to provide income information for this needs-based benefit.

Check Provincial Supplements: Investigate additional supplements available in your province. Most provinces offer supplementary benefits for low-income seniors receiving OAS and GIS.

Automatic Enrollment in Provincial Programs: Verify automatic enrollment in provincial supplement programs. In many provinces, enrollment is automatic based on your federal tax filings and benefit status.

File Taxes to Maintain Benefits: Complete annual tax filing to maintain your benefits. Most benefits require annual income verification through your tax return, even if you have no taxable income.

Monitor Benefit Integration: Review how your benefits work together and affect each other. Understanding these interactions helps ensure you receive all entitled benefits and avoid surprises.