Survivor's pension

(Excerpt from Service Canada website)

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) survivor’s pension is paid to the person who, at the time of death, is the legal spouse or common-law partner of the deceased contributor.

If you are a separated legal spouse and the deceased had no cohabiting common-law partner, you may qualify for this benefit.

How much will I get?

For current CPP payment amounts, consult the Service Canada website at www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/cpp-survivor-pension.html

The amount you receive as a surviving spouse or common-law partner will depend on:

• Whether you are also receiving a CPP disability benefit or retirement pension (visit the Service Canada website for Combining Canada Pension Plan Pensions)
• Your age
• How much, and for how long, the deceased contributor has paid into the CPP

When and how do I apply?

As the survivor, you are responsible for applying for your monthly pension. If you are incapable of applying, you may have a representative (such as a trustee) apply for you.

You should apply as soon as possible after the contributor’s death. If you delay, you may lose benefits. The CPP can only make back payments for up to 12 months.

To apply, you must complete the application form on the Service Canada website.

When will my survivor’s pension start?

The survivor’s pension starts at the earliest month after the contributor’s death.

As soon as the CPP has all the information and documentation, your application will be processed.

It takes approximately six to 12 weeks to receive your first payment from the date Service Canada receives your completed application. If more than 12 weeks have passed and you would like to find out the status of your application, contact Service Canada at 1.800.277.9914.

Online: Service Canada (Government of Canada), Survivor’s Pension, www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/cpp-survivor-pension.html