How is my CPP retirement pension calculated?

Your CPP is based on how much and how long you contributed during your working years, up to the Year's Maximum Pensionable Earnings each year, and the age at which you choose to start collecting. Starting before 65 permanently reduces your payment; starting after 65 permanently increases it.

Can I collect CPP and still work?

Yes. You can work while collecting CPP at any age. If you are under 65, contributions on your employment income are mandatory and build up a Post-Retirement Benefit. Between 65 and 70, contributing is optional.

Is CPP the same as OAS?

No. CPP is funded by your own contributions during your working years, while Old Age Security (OAS) is a separate, residency-based benefit that does not depend on employment history. Most retirees receive both.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) — Complete Guide 2026

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Hub

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a monthly, taxable benefit that replaces part of your income in retirement based on your contributions throughout your working life. Deciding when to start CPP, how much you will receive, and how it interacts with other benefits are some of the most consequential decisions in retirement planning.

Whether you are just starting to plan or you are ready to apply, explore our dedicated guides below:

CPP Guide Canada 2026 — Our complete overview of how CPP works, from eligibility to payment amounts.
CPP Benefits Canada 2026: Overview — A plain-language breakdown of contributions and payments.
CPP vs OAS — How Canada’s two main government retirement benefits differ and work together.
CPP Calculator — Estimate your monthly CPP payment based on your income and start age.

When to Start CPP

Choosing your CPP start age is a permanent decision that affects your payment for life.

Topic	Guide
60 vs 65 vs 70 Comparison	CPP at 60 vs 65 vs 70
Early vs Standard Age	Should I Claim CPP at 60 or 65?
Delaying to Maximize Payments	Should I Delay CPP Until 70?
Working After You Start CPP	CPP Post-Retirement Benefit (PRB)

Contributions and Rates

Topic	Guide
Current Contribution Rates	CPP Contribution Rates 2026
CPP2 Explained	CPP2 Contributions
The CPP Enhancement	CPP Enhancement Explained
Estimate Your Contributions	CPP Contribution Calculator
Checking Your Record	How to Check Your CPP Contribution History
Self-Employed Contributors	CPP for the Self-Employed

Payment Amounts, Taxes, and Dates

Topic	Guide
Estimate Your Payment	How Much Will CPP Pay Me?
The Maximum Payment	Maximum CPP Payment Amount
Why Your Payment Looks Low	Why Is My CPP Less Than Expected?
Tax Treatment	Is CPP Taxable in Canada?
Deposit Schedule	CPP Payment Dates 2026
After You Apply	How Long to Get Your First CPP Payment

Disability, Survivor, and Spousal Benefits

CPP also includes benefits beyond the standard retirement pension for contributors who become disabled, pass away, or want to split income with a spouse.

Am I Eligible for CPP Disability Benefits? — Medical and contribution requirements to qualify.
CPP Disability Benefit — Payment amounts and how to apply.
Working While on CPP Disability — Earnings rules and what counts against your benefit.
CPP Death Benefit — How to claim the one-time lump sum payment.
CPP Survivor Benefits — What a surviving spouse or common-law partner can receive.
CPP Pension Sharing Between Spouses — How splitting CPP income can reduce household taxes.

Combining CPP With Other Benefits

Living on CPP, OAS, and GIS Only — What retirement income looks like relying solely on government benefits.