.webp)
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without having to worry about financial matters. If you're a Quebec resident dealing with the loss of a family member, you may be wondering about death benefits that could help ease the financial burden. This guide will walk you through the different death benefits available in Quebec, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Quebec Death Benefits: What's Available?
When someone passes away in Quebec, there are several types of benefits that family members might be eligible to receive:
- Retraite Québec death benefit
- Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) survivor benefits
- Federal Canada Pension Plan (CPP) death benefit
- Funeral expense assistance
- Estate settlement benefits
Let's look at each of these options to see if your loved one qualifies.
Retraite Québec Death Benefit
The Retraite Québec death benefit is a lump-sum payment designed to help cover immediate expenses following a death.
Who is eligible?This benefit is paid to the person or organization that paid for the funeral expenses. If funeral expenses have already been paid through a pre-arranged funeral contract, the death benefit goes to the heirs.
How much is the benefit?As of 2024, the maximum death benefit is $2,500. The exact amount depends on how much your loved one contributed to the Quebec Pension Plan during their lifetime.
Important to know:You need to apply within 60 days of the death to receive this benefit.
Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) Survivor Benefits
The QPP survivor benefits provide ongoing financial support to the deceased person's family members.
Who is eligible?
- The surviving spouse (married, civil union, or common-law partner)
- Dependent children under 18
- Children between 18 and 25 who are full-time students
- Disabled children of any age who were financially dependent on the deceased
How much is the benefit?The amount varies depending on several factors, including:
- The age of the surviving spouse
- Whether the surviving spouse is disabled
- How much the deceased contributed to the QPP
- If there are dependent children
For example, in 2024, a surviving spouse aged 65 or older could receive up to 60% of their deceased spouse's retirement pension.
Federal Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Death Benefit
Even though Quebec has its own pension plan, Quebec residents who worked in other provinces may have contributed to the CPP.
Who is eligible?The estate or the person who paid for funeral expenses.
How much is the benefit?The CPP death benefit is a one-time payment of up to $2,500.
Important to know:You can't receive both the full QPP and CPP death benefits. However, if your loved one contributed to both plans, you might receive a portion from each.
Funeral Expense Assistance
For lower-income families, Quebec offers additional help with funeral costs.
Who is eligible?Families with limited financial resources. Eligibility is determined based on the deceased person's and their family's financial situation.
How much is the assistance?The Special Funeral Expense Program can provide up to $5,000 toward basic funeral services.
Estate Settlement Benefits
When settling your loved one's estate, there may be additional benefits:
- Tax return benefits: When filing the deceased's final tax return, they may qualify for certain credits and refunds.
- Life insurance payments: If your loved one had life insurance, the designated beneficiaries would receive payments.
- Employer benefits: Some employers offer death benefits to families of deceased employees.
How to Apply for Death Benefits in Quebec
To apply for Quebec death benefits, you'll need:
- The death certificate
- The deceased's Social Insurance Number
- Your banking information for direct deposit
- Documentation proving your relationship to the deceased
You can apply:
- Online through the Retraite Québec website
- By phone at 1-800-463-5185
- In person at a Retraite Québec office
- By mail using the appropriate forms
Common Questions About Quebec Death Benefits
Can I receive benefits if my partner and I weren't legally married?Yes, common-law partners who lived together for at least three years (or one year if you have a child together) are eligible for survivor benefits.
What if my loved one lived in Quebec but died in another province?The place of death doesn't affect eligibility. What matters is their residence and where they contributed to pension plans.
How long does it take to receive benefits?Processing times vary, but most applications are processed within 30-60 days. Survivor pensions typically start the month following the death.
Do I have to pay taxes on death benefits?The QPP death benefit (the lump sum) is taxable and must be reported by whoever receives it. Monthly survivor benefits are also taxable.
Getting Help With Your Application
If you're finding the application process overwhelming, there are resources to help:
- Funeral directors often assist families with benefit applications
- Local community service centers (CLSC) can provide guidance
- Service Canada offices offer assistance with federal benefits
- Retraite Québec representatives can answer questions about provincial benefits
Losing a loved one is never easy, but knowing what financial support is available can relieve some of the pressure during this difficult time. Don't hesitate to reach out for help with your application – that's what these services are there for.