When a CPP contributor passes away, a percentage of their monthly pension gets paid to their surviving spouse or common-law partner, which is called the CPP survivor’s pension (or CPP survivor benefit).
The benefit is relatively easy to apply for and takes approximately 6 - 12 weeks to receive your first payment. The amount you receive depends on the original pension as well as your age.
Surviving spouses may also be eligible for the CPP death benefit.
Find out how to apply and how much you can receive below.
Key Takeaways
- After a CPP contributor dies, a portion of their monthly pension is paid to their spouse or common-law partner.
- If you receive CPP benefits when your spouse dies, you will receive a combined payment of your own benefits and a portion of your spouse’s or common-law partner’s payments.
- It will take between six to 12 weeks to receive your first survivor benefit payment.
- Your CPP survivor’s benefit will last until you die, whether or not you remarry or have a new common-law partner.
Who qualifies for the CPP survivor's pension?
In order to qualify for the survivor’s pension you must be legally married to the CPP contributor who has passed away, or be their common-law partner (living together for a minimum of one year).
You’re also eligible to receive the CPP death benefit if you separated from the deceased, and they didn’t remarry or have a new partner.
How much is the CPP survivor's pension?
As the surviving spouse, the amount you can receive from the CPP survivor’s benefit depends on your age and how much/how long the deceased person has paid into CPP.
| Age | Rules | Average (October 2024) | Maximum (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 65 or older | 60% of pension, assuming you're not receiving other CPP benefits | $323.78 | $818.76 |
| Under 65 | Flat rate + 37.5% of contributor's retirement pension | $524.78 | $739.31 |
As an example, if you’re 70 years old and your deceased spouse received $10,000 per year, you would receive $6,000 – assuming you aren’t receiving other CPP benefits.
It’s best to check with the government to confirm any amounts you’ll receive as there are many factors that can impact how much you'll receive.
What is the survivor’s pension if you already receive CPP?
If you already receive CPP benefits and your spouse or common-law partner passes away, the survivor’s payment will be combined with your CPP benefits into a single payment.
If you receive a full CPP benefit when your spouse or partner dies, you will not receive the full survivor’s benefit. Instead, you will receive the maximum retirement benefit instead (which is higher than the maximum survivor’s benefit). As of October 2024, the maximum amount you can receive is $1,375.41 per month.
How to apply for the CPP survivor's pension
The surviving spouse or partner is responsible for applying to receive the CPP survivor’s pension as soon as the contributor passes away.
Here’s the easiest way to apply:
- Log in to your My Service Canada Account
- Fill out the CPP survivor’s pension form
- Mail in the required documentation or drop them off at a Service Canada office
You can also apply using a paper application. You can download the form to print out here: Application for CPP Survivor's pension and Child(ren's) Benefits.
After you apply, it will take approximately 6 - 12 weeks to receive the first payment, measured from the date Service Canada receives your completed application. If it has taken longer than 12 weeks, you can request a review of the application by contacting the Canada Pension Plan.
FAQ
How long does the CPP survivor benefit last?
The CPP survivor’s pension remains with you until you pass away, even if you remarry or live with a common-law partner. Once you turn 65, this payment is combined with your own CPP benefit payments.
Who is entitled to CPP survivor benefits?
In order to qualify for the CPP survivor benefit you must be the legal spouse or common-law partner of a deceased contributor. The survivor's benefit isn't automatic, so you'll need to apply soon after the death of your partner.
How is the CPP survivor benefit calculated?
It's based on your age, other benefits you receive, and the amount/duration of the deceased's contributions. Those aged 65+ receive 60% of the original pension and those under 65 receive a flat rate + 37.5% of the contributor’s pension.
Can you combine your own CPP payments with CPP survivor benefits?
If you already receive CPP, the monthly total of the two pensions cannot exceed $1,375.41 (in 2024). You may not qualify for the survivor’s pension if you already receive the maximum monthly CPP amount.
How much of CPP does a survivor get?
If you don't currently receive CPP benefits and are over 65, you may receive up to $818.76/month. If you do receive CPP, these benefits are combined and you'll receive a maximum of $1,375.41/month.
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