A one-time, lump-sum payment to the estate on behalf of a deceased Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributor.
If an estate exists the executor should apply for the benefit within 60 days of the date of death. If no estate exists or if the executor does not apply, payment may be made to: the person or institution responsible for paying funeral expenses, the surviving spouse or common-law partner of the deceased, the next-of-kin of the deceased.
Individuals who are eligible for this benefit may also be eligible for the Surviving Child's Benefit or the Survivor's Pension which both offer monthly payments to children, spouses, and common-law partners of deceased CPP contributors.
The deceased must have made contributions to the CPP for at least one third of the calendar years since they turned 18 (no less than three years) or for at least 10 years.
Apply online, or print and complete forms and mail to Service Canada or drop off at any Service Canada Office. Information about required documentation is available on each form.