Canada’s Survivor Allowance provides critical financial support to widows, widowers, and surviving partners—with payments up to $1,647/month starting March 2025. But strict eligibility rules apply. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and when payments arrive so you don’t miss this vital benefit.
What Is the Survivor Allowance?
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Survivor’s Pension and Old Age Security (OAS) Allowance for the Survivor combine to provide:
✔ Monthly payments up to $1,647 (March 2025 rates)
✔ Taxable income (but no clawbacks for low earners)
✔ Lifetime benefits for eligible survivors
Who Qualifies for the $1,647 Payment?
1. CPP Survivor’s Pension
- Age Requirement: Under 65 (if disabled) or 65+
- Marital Status: Legally married/common-law partner of deceased
- Deceased’s Contributions: Must have paid into CPP for 3+ years
2. OAS Allowance for the Survivor
- Age Requirement: 60–64 years old
- Income Limit (2025): ≤$35,832/year (individual)
- Residency: Lived in Canada ≥10 years since age 18
Payment Amounts for March 2025
| Benefit | Max Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| CPP Survivor’s Pension | $1,064.67 |
| OAS Allowance for the Survivor | $582.94 |
| Combined Total | $1,647.61 |
Note: Actual amounts vary based on the deceased’s CPP contributions and survivor’s income.
How to Apply for the Survivor Allowance
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Death certificate
- Marriage/common-law proof
- Deceased’s SIN and CPP statement
- Your banking details (for direct deposit)
Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Online: Service Canada Account
- By Mail: Complete Form ISP-1300
- In-Person: Visit a Service Canada Centre
Step 3: Wait for Approval
- Processing time: 6–12 weeks
- Backpay provided to date of death
March 2025 Payment Dates
| Benefit | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| CPP Survivor’s Pension | March 27, 2025 |
| OAS Allowance for the Survivor | March 26, 2025 |
Deposits arrive by 9AM local time via direct deposit.
FAQs About the Survivor Allowance
Q1: Can I get both CPP and OAS survivor benefits?
Yes—they’re stackable if you meet eligibility for both.
Q2: What if I remarry?
You lose OAS Allowance but keep CPP Survivor’s Pension.
Q3: Is there a one-time death benefit?
Yes—CPP pays $2,500 lump sum to the estate.
Q4: Do I qualify if my spouse died outside Canada?
Only if they paid into CPP while living abroad.
Q5: How is the payment taxed?
Taxed as income—but low-income survivors may owe $0.
How to Maximize Your Benefits
✅ Apply within 12 months (Avoid losing backpay)
✅ Combine with GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement) if income is low
✅ Update marital status ASAP (Prevent overpayments)
Scam Alerts
❌ “Service Canada” calls asking for SIN/banking info
❌ Fake “survivor benefit” fee scams
Real government contacts come via mail or your Service Canada account.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss This Lifeline
The $1,647 Survivor Allowance can be a financial lifeline—if you qualify. Apply now to secure March 2025 payments.
Need Help?
- Service Canada Hotline: 1-800-277-9914
- CPP/OAS Website: Canada.ca/public-pensions
- Bereavement Counseling: Canadian Mental Health Association
Your entitled benefits could be just an application away—act now!