In order for the death benefit to be paid out, the deceased must have been making contributions over at least:
- one-third of the calendar years in their contributory period for the base CPP, and for at least 3 calendar years; or
- 10 calendar years total
Note: If you live in Quebec, you should refer to the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) instead and contact Retraite Québec if you have any questions.
Proof of death
A document that provides the name, date, and place of death. The document must also be on official letterhead or contain a seal and provide the name and/or signature of the person or authority issuing the document. For example:
- Burial certificate or death certificate
- Certification of death from another country
- Life or Group Insurance Claim along with a statement signed by a medical doctor
- Medical Certification of Death
- Memorandum of Notification of Death issued by the Chief of National Defence Staff
- Notarial copy of Letters of Probate
- Official Death Certificate
- Official Notification from the Public Trustee for a Province
- Registration of Death
- Statement of a medical doctor, coroner, or funeral director
- Statement of Verification of Death from the Department of Veterans Affairs
Social Insurance Number
For example:
- confirmation of SIN letter
- plastic SIN card (non-expired)
Apply for Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Death Benefit
Gather the required documents:
- Complete the Application for a Canada Pension Plan Death Benefit (ISP1200) or log into your My Service Canada Account complete the online form
- Include certified true copies of the required documentation, and
- Mail it to the closest Service Canada Centre to you. Addresses are provided on the form.