Canada · Official publisher guide · Updated October 11, 2026
What to do after a death in Canada
The work is spread across your province, federal agencies and private organisations. Start with a short action list and a contact log, rather than trying to settle everything at once.
1. Arrange the immediate practical steps
Contact the appropriate medical or emergency service if needed, then the funeral home. Ask what they handle for death registration and what your family must provide. Confirm how to order official death certificates in the province or territory; ask institutions which proof and number of copies they require.
2. Find the will and the responsible person
Locate the original will and any related documents. Identify the named executor, or get advice about who may apply to administer the estate if there is no will. Gather contacts for the lawyer or Québec notary, accountant and family members. Secure important papers and keep receipts for necessary expenses.
3. Notify federal agencies separately
Follow Service Canada's instructions for CPP and OAS after a death. Payments received for later months may need to be returned. If the person received QPP benefits, contact Retraite Québec as well. Confirm the CRA's records and the documentation needed for the legal representative.
Check death and survivor benefits separately from cancelling existing payments. Eligibility varies; receiving a pension does not mean a benefit claim happens automatically.
4. Contact the organisations in the person's records
Build a list of banks, credit cards, mortgage providers, insurers, workplace pensions, utilities and subscriptions. Ask each organisation what it needs, what can continue and what must change. Do not assume all joint accounts or named-beneficiary assets follow the same rules.
5. Confirm the provincial estate procedure
In Ontario, the probate guide explains court appointment and the documents required. Probate is not needed for every estate. In Québec, follow the civil-law succession process and obtain advice where appropriate. Elsewhere, use your provincial or territorial guidance instead of an Ontario form.
6. Make a calendar and an inventory
Record assets, debts, correspondence, expenses and deadlines. Separate practical actions you can organise now from decisions requiring confirmed legal authority. The 48-60-6 Method provides a planning order, and the executor checklist gives you the record headings.
If you are preparing for your own family
Write down document locations and contact details while you can explain them. Tell the intended executor where the record is kept and update it after major changes. Keep account access information securely; an organiser does not give someone permission to access or use another person's accounts.