🍁 BenefitCanada

CPP death benefit

FederalPensionChecked October 2, 2026

The CPP death benefit is a one-time payment made after a CPP contributor dies. It usually goes to the person's estate.

How much

A basic $2,500, plus a possible $2,500 top-up (maximum $5,000) if the deceased never received CPP retirement or disability benefits and left no eligible surviving spouse or partner (rules in effect since January 1, 2025).

When it's paid

One lump sum, usually 6 to 12 weeks after a complete application is received.

Who qualifies

  • The deceased contributed to CPP long enough (at least one-third of contributory years with a minimum of 3, or 10 calendar years)
  • The estate's executor applies first
  • If there is no estate: the person who paid funeral costs, the surviving spouse or partner, or next of kin

How to apply

  1. The executor should apply within 60 days of the death
  2. Apply online through My Service Canada Account or mail form ISP1200
  3. If the deceased also paid into the QPP, contact Retraite Quebec

What to have ready

  • Death certificate or funeral director's statement
  • Deceased's Social Insurance Number
  • Proof you are the executor, or funeral receipts if you paid

Common mistakes to avoid

  • The executor not applying, which holds up others
  • Forgetting to apply for survivor's and children's benefits
Still being confirmed: Tax treatment of the payment was not confirmed on the page checked. Check the official page for the latest details.

Official sources

Last checked against these pages on October 2, 2026.

Related

  • CPP survivor's pensionThe survivor's pension pays a monthly amount to the spouse or common-law partner of a CPP contributor who has died. The…
  • CPP children's benefitA monthly CPP payment for the child of a contributor who gets a CPP disability benefit or who has died. It is paid until…
  • After a deathLife-event checklist

Which of these could you get?

Answer a few anonymous questions and our AI checks federal, provincial and local programs for your household — with estimated amounts and how to apply. No name, SIN or address needed.

Start my free preview

BenefitCanada is independent and not affiliated with any government. This guide summarizes official sources in plain language; rules and amounts change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.