Prepare for end of life

Prepare a will

Your will is the easiest and most effective way to tell others how you want to distribute your property after you die. Make or update your will to give yourself and your survivors' peace of mind.

If you don't have a will, your survivors may have to wait longer to benefit from your estate. Depending how complicated your estate is, your survivors may need to hire a lawyer and go to court to deal with your estate. For more information, refer to What every older Canadian should know about: Having a will and making funeral plans.

Appointing the right individuals

Choosing the right executor is essential. It’s common for people to appoint a trusted family member, friend, or legal professional.

Executors should be organized, responsible, and capable of handling financial matters.

Power of attorney

While you are alive, a power of attorney is a legal document that you sign to give one person, or more than one person, the authority to manage your money and property on your behalf if or when you cannot. It is important to note that the authority of a power of attorney ends upon death. For more information, refer to What every older Canadian should know about: Powers of attorney (for financial matters and property) and joint bank accounts.

Review your coverage

If you have an insurance policy, it is important to understand what your insurance policy covers and doesn’t cover. For more information, refer to Insurance.

Prearrange a funeral

You may wish to plan your funeral ahead of time. For more information about prearranging a funeral, refer to Funerals.

Caregiver financial assistance

If you require end-of-life care, your caregiver may be eligible for financial assistance while they are away from work to care for you. For more information, refer to Caregiving benefits and leave.

Illness and disability

If you are unable to work due to a terminally ill diagnosis, you may be eligible for Canada Pension Plan or Québec Pension Plan disability benefits. For more information, refer to Canada Pension Plan disability benefits and Québec Pension Plan disability benefits.

Have you contributed to the Canada Pension Plan or the Québec Pension Plan

Familiarize yourself with the benefits to which your Estate or survivors may be eligible.

• Canada Pension Plan - Death benefit
• Canada Pension Plan - Survivor's pension
• Canada Pension Plan - Benefits for children under 25
• The Québec Pension Plan