Federal · Notify government · Difficulty: Simple

Cancel CPP and OAS benefits after a death

Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security payments must be cancelled promptly. Payments issued for months after the death usually must be returned.

Who usually needs this

  • Executor
  • Personal representative
  • Surviving spouse

When to review

First week

Documents commonly needed

  • Death certificate
  • Deceased's SIN (reference only)
  • Proof of authority if requested

Life Steward does not collect or store these documents.

Common issues

  • Direct deposits received after death should not be spent: they may be clawed back.
  • Cancelling CPP/OAS is separate from applying for survivor benefits.

Official sources

Last reviewed 2026-07-10

The Life Steward Resource Centre is provided for general information and navigation only. It is not legal, tax, financial, insurance, medical, or professional advice. Confirm current requirements and deadlines with the appropriate organization or professional before acting.