After a Loved One Dies: CPP Death Benefit and Survivor's Benefits

What is it?

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) death benefit is a one-time payment to the estate or other eligible individuals on behalf of a deceased CPP contributor. It is administered by Employment and Social Development Canada.

Eligibility

To qualify, the deceased must have contributed to CPP for at least one of the following:

• One-third of the calendar years in their contributory period for the base CPP, but no less than 3 calendar years; or
• 10 calendar years.

For deaths on or after January 1, 2025, a top-up is included. To qualify for the top-up, the deceased must also:

• Have never received a disability benefit, post-retirement disability benefit, or retirement pension under CPP or QPP; and
• Not have a surviving spouse or common-law partner eligible for a survivor's pension.

If the deceased lived outside Canada, international social security agreements may help meet these requirements. If they worked or lived in Quebec, contributions to both CPP and QPP are combined.

Amount

Effective January 1, 2025, the death benefit consists of:

• A basic amount of $2,500; and
• A possible top-up of $2,500.

The maximum is $5,000. Amounts may be less if a social security agreement is needed.

When to apply

Apply as soon as possible after the contributor's death.

Who applies

If an estate exists, the executor or administrator applies. The executor should apply within 60 days of death.

If no estate or executor applies, payment may go to, in order of priority:

1. The person or institution that paid or is responsible for funeral expenses;
2. The surviving spouse or common-law partner;
3. The next-of-kin.

A registered trustee, guardian, or legal representative may act on behalf of a client in person, by mail, or by phone, but not online.

How to apply

Online: Sign in to My Service Canada Account (MSCA), complete the online CPP Death Benefit form, and upload supporting documents if any.

By mail: Complete the Application for a Canada Pension Plan Death Benefit (ISP1200), include copies of documents, and mail to Service Canada. Include both the deceased's and your Social Insurance Number on all documents.

After applying

It takes about 6 to 12 weeks to receive payment from the date Service Canada receives your completed application. If more than 12 weeks pass, contact CPP to check status.

If you disagree with a decision, you may request reconsideration.

For tax reporting, see "Death benefits - Prepare tax returns for someone who died."

Official sources

• Death Benefit - Canada.ca