If you’ve lost a spouse or common-law partner, the Government of Canada provides financial support through CPP survivor benefits. This benefit helps survivors manage living costs after the death of a contributor to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). In this 2025 guide, we cover everything you need to know about CPP survivor benefits—from eligibility and payment amounts to duration and important dates.
Table of Contents
What Are CPP Survivor Benefits?
The CPP survivor benefit is a monthly payment made to the surviving spouse or common-law partner of a deceased CPP contributor. It is a part of Canada’s public pension system and provides income support to help ease financial burdens after the loss of a partner.
Who Is Eligible for CPP Survivor Benefits in 2025?
To receive CPP survivor benefits, you must meet the following conditions:
- You are the legal spouse or common-law partner of the deceased at the time of death.
- The deceased made sufficient contributions to the CPP during their working years.
- You have not remarried or entered into a new common-law relationship (for ongoing payments).
Additional notes:
- Common-law partners must provide documentation proving the relationship.
- The deceased must have contributed to the CPP for at least:
- One-third of the calendar years in their contributory period (minimum 3 years), or
- 10 calendar years total.
Full List of Financial Benefits Coming in May 2025 for Low-Income Seniors & How to Qualify
How Much CPP Will Increase in May 2025: Bigger Payments Coming for These Canadians
$3,247 CRA Direct Deposit Payment for Seniors in May 2025: Payment Dates & Eligibility
How Much Are CPP Survivor Benefits in 2025?
The amount depends on your age and whether you’re already receiving other CPP benefits.
For Survivors Under Age 65:
- You receive a flat-rate portion ($216.08 as of 2025) plus 37.5% of your deceased partner’s CPP retirement pension.
- Maximum monthly payment: $770.88
For Survivors Aged 65 and Older:
- You receive 60% of your deceased partner’s CPP retirement pension.
- Maximum monthly payment: $859.80
Keep in mind:
- If you are already receiving a CPP retirement or disability pension, the total amount of combined CPP benefits is subject to a maximum limit. This may reduce your survivor benefit.
How Long Will I Receive CPP Survivor Benefits?
The duration of CPP survivor benefits depends on your circumstances:
- Lifetime payments if you are a surviving spouse or common-law partner and meet all eligibility requirements.
- Payments may stop or be reduced if you:
- Remarry or enter into a new common-law relationship (in certain cases).
- Start receiving another CPP benefit that impacts the combined benefit cap.
CPP Survivor Benefits Payment Dates for 2025
Payments are made monthly, usually during the last week of the month. The official CPP payment schedule for 2025 is as follows:
- January 29
- February 26
- March 27
- April 28
- May 28
- June 26
- July 29
- August 27
- September 25
- October 29
- November 26
- December 22
How to Apply for CPP Survivor Benefits
You should apply as soon as possible after your spouse or partner’s death. Retroactive payments are available for up to 12 months from the application date.
You can apply:
- Online through your My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
- By mail using the form: “Canada Pension Plan Survivor’s Pension and Children’s Benefits” (Form ISP1300)
Required documents typically include:
- Proof of death
- Proof of relationship
- Social Insurance Numbers (yours and the deceased’s)
- Banking details for direct deposit
When Will You Start Receiving Payments?
After your application is approved, you can typically expect your first payment within 6 to 12 weeks. Payments begin the month following the contributor’s death, as long as all documents and requirements are complete.
Additional Notes
- Survivor benefits do not affect your eligibility for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension.
- You must report any changes (such as remarriage or change in address) to Service Canada.
- If you’re also eligible for other federal or provincial benefits, those may affect your total income but not the survivor benefit directly.
Contact for Help
If you need assistance or have questions about your CPP survivor benefits application:
- Call Service Canada: 1-800-277-9914
Conclusion
CPP survivor benefits in 2025 continue to provide vital financial support for those grieving the loss of a spouse or partner. Knowing your eligibility, how much you’ll receive, and how long you can expect the payments helps you make informed financial decisions during a difficult time. Be sure to apply promptly and keep your information updated with Service Canada.