Savings & retirement
How could my start age affect my public pension?
Use your statement estimate to explore the effect of starting earlier or later.
✓ 2026 rules · Last verified August 2026 · Based on official Canadian sourcesEstimated monthly Canada Pension Plan (CPP) / Quebec Pension Plan (QPP)
Planning estimate — not financial advice.
Understand the result
What this estimate means
Use your statement estimate to explore the effect of starting earlier or later.
Start-age adjustment: Starting before or after 65 permanently changes the monthly pension amount.
Recommended next calculation
Old Age Security (OAS) / Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
Based on this result, this is the most useful calculation to compare next.
Old Age Security (OAS) / Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
Add federal public benefits to complete more of your retirement-income picture.
Continue with this calculator →See all savings & retirement calculators →Helpful answers
Frequently Asked Questions
How much CPP will I get when I retire?
Your CPP retirement pension depends mainly on how much and how long you contributed, your earnings history and the age you start receiving the pension. The maximum published amount is not what every retiree receives.
Is it better to take CPP at 60, 65 or 70?
Starting before 65 permanently reduces the monthly pension, while delaying after 65 increases it up to age 70. The best choice depends on longevity expectations, other income, taxes, cash needs and whether you continue working.
How much is the maximum CPP payment in 2026?
The maximum monthly amount is set annually and depends on the age benefits begin. Very few people automatically receive the maximum because it requires a sufficiently strong contribution history.
What is the difference between CPP and QPP?
CPP applies in most of Canada, while Quebec operates the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP/RRQ). The programs are coordinated but have separate contribution rates, administration and some benefit details.
Can I receive CPP or QPP while still working?
Yes. You can receive a retirement pension while working. Depending on your age and program rules, you may continue making contributions that can generate additional post-retirement benefits.
Official sources and rule record+
Methodology & official sources
How this estimate works
Applies standard monthly early- and late-start adjustment percentages to the age-65 estimate entered.
Your official Statement of Contributions is required for a personal estimate; Canada Pension Plan and Quebec Pension Plan rules differ in some situations.
ca.portfolio.2026.v1 · Effective 2026-01-01 · 2026 rules · Last verified August 2026 · Based on official Canadian sources