What Happens to CPP When You Die? A Guide to CPP Death and Survivor Benefits

When a contributor to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) dies, it’s important to understand what happens to their CPP payments and what support is available for survivors. CPP offers more than retirement benefits—it also includes financial help for spouses, children, and estates after death. This guide explains how CPP death and survivor benefits work, who qualifies, and how to apply.

For families coping with a loss, knowing what to expect from CPP can reduce stress and help with planning. Whether you’re preparing in advance or navigating the death of a loved one, this resource covers everything you need to know.

What Happens to CPP Payments After Death?

When a person receiving CPP dies, their regular retirement or disability payments stop. However, CPP offers three types of benefits to survivors:

• A one-time death benefit to help cover immediate expenses like funeral costs
• A monthly survivor’s pension for the deceased’s spouse or common-law partner
• A children’s benefit for eligible dependents

These benefits are based on the contributor’s earnings and the number of years they paid into CPP.
Related: What to Expect When Your Spouse Dies

What Is the CPP Death Benefit?

The CPP death benefit is a one-time, lump sum payment meant to help with expenses immediately after death. This payment can help cover funeral costs or final arrangements.

As of 2024, the maximum death benefit is $2,500 CAD. This amount is fixed and does not increase based on how long someone contributed.

To qualify, the deceased must have made valid contributions to CPP for at least 10 years or one-third of the years in their contributory period (with a minimum of three years).
See: How to Get Help with Funeral Costs in Canada

Who Can Receive the Death Benefit?

By default, the death benefit is paid to the deceased’s estate. If no estate exists or the estate does not apply within 60 days, the benefit may be paid to:

• The person who paid the funeral expenses
• The surviving spouse or common-law partner
• The next of kin

Helpful: What to Do When Someone Dies at Home in Canada

Is the CPP Death Benefit Taxable?

Yes, the CPP death benefit is taxable, but it is reported on the final tax return for the deceased person’s estate. It is not taxed as income for the person who receives the funds. A T4A slip will be issued to the estate.

For help with tax treatment, speak to an accountant or estate advisor.
CRA: Preparing returns after someone dies

What Is the CPP Survivor Benefit?

The survivor’s benefit is a monthly payment made to the legal spouse or common-law partner of a deceased CPP contributor. This pension helps replace a portion of the contributor’s income and ease financial stress for their surviving partner.

The amount varies depending on the survivor’s age and whether they are already receiving a CPP retirement pension.

• If the survivor is under 65: they receive a flat-rate portion plus a percentage of the deceased’s CPP.
• If the survivor is 65 or older: they receive a portion of the deceased’s CPP retirement benefit.

As of 2024, the maximum monthly survivor pension is:

• $739.31 for those under 65
• $772.15 for those 65 and over

If the survivor is already receiving CPP retirement payments, the combined amount is capped.
See: CPP Survivor’s Pension
Also read: Does ODSP Cover Funeral Costs in Ontario?

CPP Child Survivor Benefit

Children of a deceased CPP contributor may also qualify for monthly support. To be eligible, a child must be:

• Under 18, or
• Between 18 and 25 and enrolled full-time in an approved school or university

As of 2024, the monthly benefit is $281.72 per eligible child.

An application must be completed separately for each child. Documentation such as a birth certificate and proof of school enrollment may be required.
See also:

• Where to Get Help Covering Funeral Costs for a Child in Canada
• CPP Children’s Benefit Guide

How to Apply for CPP Death and Survivor Benefits

Survivors and estate representatives must apply for CPP benefits after death—payments are not automatic.

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Death certificate (certified or official copy)
• Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, shared legal documents)
• The deceased’s SIN
• Your own banking info for direct deposit
• Completed application forms:
  • ISP1200 – Death Benefit
  • ISP1300 – Survivor’s Pension
  • ISP1400 – Children’s Benefit

You can submit your application online using your My Service Canada Account, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada location.

Processing time is generally 6 to 12 weeks. Applications for survivor benefits can be made retroactively for up to 12 months from the date of death.

CPP Benefits and Estate Planning

The death benefit becomes part of the estate unless claimed by the person who paid funeral expenses. Survivor and children’s benefits are not subject to probate and are paid directly to eligible individuals.

To avoid delays:

• Make sure your estate documents are up to date
• Store important information in a safe, accessible location
• Let your executor or family members know how to apply for CPP death and survivor benefits

What Happens to CPP When You Leave Canada?

CPP benefits are payable even if the contributor or survivor is living outside Canada. Survivors residing abroad can still apply for and receive death and survivor benefits, as long as eligibility requirements are met. Additional documentation and certified translations may be needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions About CPP Death and Survivor Benefits

If you’re trying to understand what happens to CPP when someone dies, these common questions and answers will help clarify who is eligible, how much you can receive, and how the process works.