How Do You Get a Deceased Person's CPP Death Benefit in Ontario?

The CPP death benefit can go to the person or institution that paid, or is responsible for paying, the funeral expenses. Keep in mind that funeral expenses cannot be deducted on the deceased's final tax return. If several people shared the cost, it is worth confirming who should apply before anyone does.

Funeral expenses cannot be deducted on the deceased's final tax return, and they cannot be deducted when calculating Estate Administration Tax. So the benefit and the tax treatment of the funeral bill are separate questions. Under a will, the estate is normally distributed only after the assets are liquidated and the funeral and burial expenses and debts are paid.

The exact benefit amounts, the survivor benefits, the application steps and the documents required are set by the federal government and can change, so check the current CPP information on canada.ca or ask a lawyer or accountant. Before applying, gather the funeral invoice, proof of who paid it and the paperwork about the death, then confirm what is required. Keep copies of everything you send.