Retirement2 min read · Updated October 21, 2026
CPP at 60, 65 or 70: which start age pays more?
How much CPP you get at 60, 65 or 70, the break-even ages, and who should start early or wait, with a worked example of $900 a month at 65.
The rule
For each month you start before 65, your CPP falls by 0.6%, so 36% less at 60. For each month after 65, it rises by 0.7%, so 42% more at 70. The change is permanent.
The numbers
| Start at 60 | $576 a month · $172,800 by 85 · $207,360 by 90 |
| Start at 62 | $706 a month · $194,746 by 85 · $237,082 by 90 |
| Start at 65 | $900 a month · $216,000 by 85 · $270,000 by 90 |
| Start at 67 | $1,051 a month · $227,059 by 85 · $290,131 by 90 |
| Start at 70 | $1,278 a month · $230,040 by 85 · $306,720 by 90 |
Break-even
Starting at 60 gives you five extra years of payments, but a smaller amount. Waiting until 65 overtakes it at about age 73.9. Waiting until 70 overtakes 65 at about age 82.
Who should do what
Start early if you need the income, have health concerns, or want to keep your RRSP growing. Wait if you have other income and a family history of long life. Check your own estimate on My Service Canada Account.
Common questions
How much is CPP reduced at 60?
36%, which is 0.6% for each month before 65.
How much is it increased at 70?
42%, which is 0.7% for each month after 65.
Is the change permanent?
Yes. The amount stays adjusted for life, though it rises with inflation.