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A Reference Guide - Old Age Security and Canada Pension Plan

This booklet is a reference guide to the Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security programs. It is intended to give a general description of how the programs operate, who is eligible, and how benefits are determined.

It is not possible, in the limited space available, to provide a comprehensive explanation of all the details of the complex legislation governing these programs. When questions arise, the legislation must govern.

This booklet is also available in alternative formats on request.

March 2008

  • Catalogue number ISPB-100-03-08E

    Erratum : In this guide, there is an error in the section entitled Credit Splitting on page 16 (PDF only). The following text is incorrect:

    Credit splitting can affect the CPP entitlements of both former spouses/common-law partners. Please note the following differences in application requirements:

    • There is no time limit to apply for credit splitting in the case of divorce or annulment. 

    The text should read as follows:

    Credit splitting can affect the CPP entitlements of both former spouses/common-law partners. Please note the following differences in application requirements:

    • There is no time limit to apply for credit splitting in the case of divorce or annulment occurring after January 1, 1987."

  • Printable version in PDF format (2.02 mb, 36 pages). To download and print PDF files, you will need the free Adobe Acrobat ReaderWorld Wide Web site

Contents



  • Quick Reference Index
    • If an individual:
      • and/or his or her spouse or common-law partner are both 60 or over
      • is recently widowed
      • is divorced or separated
      • has children who were born after December 31, 1958
      • has lived or worked abroad

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