Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and knowing who to notify can help ease the burden. In Canada, there are specific people and institutions that must be informed promptly following a death. This guide outlines the most important notifications to make in the days and weeks following a loss.
Immediate Notifications (Within 24-48 Hours)
1. Medical Authorities
If the death occurs at home, contact emergency services (911) or the deceased’s healthcare provider to obtain an official Medical Certificate of Death. If the death occurs in a hospital or long-term care facility, staff will handle this process.
For additional guidance, visit the Government of Canada’s death registration page.
2. Family and Close Friends
Notifying immediate family members and close friends allows for emotional support and coordination of next steps, such as funeral arrangements.
3. Funeral Home or Crematorium
Choosing a funeral home is an essential early step, as they assist with filing the Death Certificate, organizing services, and handling remains. You can find a licensed funeral provider through the Funeral Service Association of Canada.
Government and Legal Notifications
4. Provincial and Territorial Vital Statistics Offices
Registering the death with your province or territory’s Vital Statistics Office is required to obtain a Death Certificate, which will be necessary for handling estate matters. Each region has its own office:
- Alberta - Vital Statistics
- British Columbia - Vital Statistics
- Manitoba - Vital Statistics
- New Brunswick - Vital Statistics
- Newfoundland and Labrador - Vital Statistics
- Northwest Territories - Vital Statistics
- Nova Scotia - Vital Statistics
- Nunavut - Vital Statistics
- Ontario - ServiceOntario
- Prince Edward Island - Vital Statistics
- Quebec - Directeur de l'état civil
- Saskatchewan - Vital Statistics
- Yukon - Vital Statistics
5. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
Inform the Canada Revenue Agency to stop benefits and update tax records. You can notify the CRA by completing the RC4111 – What to Do Following a Death form. More details can be found on the CRA website.
6. Service Canada – Old Age Security & CPP
If the deceased received Old Age Security (OAS) or the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), these benefits must be canceled. Survivors may also be eligible for the CPP Death Benefit. To apply, visit Service Canada.
Financial and Legal Institutions
7. Banks and Financial Institutions
Notify the deceased’s bank or credit union to close accounts, cancel credit cards, and manage estate funds. Some financial institutions may require a notarized Death Certificate.
8. Insurance Providers
Contact life insurance companies to begin the claims process and notify auto, home, and health insurance providers to update or cancel policies.
9. Employers and Pension Providers
If the deceased was employed or receiving a pension, notify their employer or pension provider to stop payments and inquire about any benefits owed to the estate or dependents.
Additional Notifications
10. Utilities and Subscription Services
Cancel or transfer utilities, phone services, internet, and streaming subscriptions. Inform companies such as:
- Hydro and gas providers
- Cell phone and internet companies
- Newspaper and magazine subscriptions
11. Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration
Inform the provincial or territorial motor vehicle department to cancel the deceased’s driver’s license and vehicle registration.
- Alberta - Service Alberta
- British Columbia - ICBC
- Manitoba - MPI
- New Brunswick - SNB
- Newfoundland and Labrador - Digital Government
- Northwest Territories - DMV
- Nova Scotia - RMV
- Nunavut - Motor Vehicles
- Ontario - ServiceOntario
- Prince Edward Island - Highway Safety
- Quebec - SAAQ
- Saskatchewan - SGI
- Yukon - Motor Vehicles
Taking the Next Steps
Managing notifications after a death is a challenging but necessary process. Keeping a checklist and gathering required documents in advance can help streamline tasks. If you need assistance handling legal or financial matters, consider speaking with an estate lawyer or financial advisor. For more information on estate settlement, visit the Government of Canada’s end-of-life guide.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult a qualified professional for assistance in managing estate matters.
