When a loved one receiving CPP or OAS passes away, it’s essential to act promptly to notify Service Canada and cancel their benefits. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you need to do, including notifying the authorities, providing proof of death, and managing repayment of benefits.
Table of Contents
Why Benefits Must Be Cancelled After a Death
OAS and CPP benefits, including related supplementary benefits, must be cancelled after the death of a recipient. Benefits are only payable for the month in which the death occurs. Payments received after this period must be repaid. This includes the following:
- Old Age Security (OAS):
- OAS Pension
- Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Allowance
- Allowance for the Survivor
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP):
- CPP Retirement Pension
- CPP Disability Benefits
- CPP Children’s Benefits
- CPP Survivor Benefits
Steps to Cancel Benefits
1. Notify Service Canada of the Death
You can notify Service Canada about the death of a CPP or OAS beneficiary by:
- Phone: Contact their toll-free number.
- Mail: Send a letter providing the deceased’s information and proof of death.
If the deceased was receiving benefits under the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP), you must also notify Retraite Québec.
2. Provide Proof of Death
To cancel benefits, Service Canada requires proof of the beneficiary’s death. Acceptable documents include:
- Official death certificates issued by a government authority.
- Funeral home death certificates signed by a funeral director or religious leader.
- Medical certificates of death from a doctor or coroner.
- Registration of death issued by provincial or territorial authorities.
- Certified documents such as Letters of Probate or court appointments for estate administration.
Requirements for Proof:
- The document must be an original or certified copy.
- It must include the deceased’s name, date, and place of death.
- It must be dated, legible, and signed by an authorized individual.
For deaths outside Canada, foreign government-issued proof is acceptable. Contact Service Canada to confirm document eligibility.
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Returning Payments Received After Death
1. Payments by Direct Deposit
If the deceased received direct deposit payments, the bank should return any amounts deposited after the death. Alternatively, you can send a cheque payable to Receiver General for Canada to the Service Canada office managing the payments.
2. Payments by Cheque
For cheques issued after death, return them to:
Cheque Redemption Control Directorate
Returned Cheques
PO Box 2000
Matane QC G4W 4N5
Include the deceased’s name and address, along with the estate or executor’s contact information.
Special Notes for Deaths Outside Canada
If the death occurred abroad, Service Canada requires additional proof, such as a foreign-issued death certificate or documentation that meets their requirements. Ensure all documents are original or certified copies.
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Key Takeaways
- Benefits like OAS and CPP are payable only for the month of death; any payments received afterward must be returned.
- Notify Service Canada promptly and provide acceptable proof of death.
- Be proactive in repaying any overpaid benefits to avoid complications with the estate.
Canceling OAS and CPP benefits is a critical step in settling the affairs of a loved one. Prompt action ensures compliance and helps avoid unnecessary financial complications for the estate.
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