Financial assistance available in the event of death in Quebec: What you need to know

1. Retraite Québec Funeral Assistance Program

One of the main resources for bereaved families in Quebec is the Funeral Assistance Program offered by Retraite Québec. This program provides financial assistance to cover funeral costs and death-related expenses, under certain conditions.

Eligibility requirements :

• The deceased had to be a contributor to the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP).
• The service is offered to the loved ones of the deceased, usually the immediate family.

Amount granted :
The maximum amount is $2,500, although this figure may vary depending on contributions made to the QPP.

How to apply :
To apply for this assistance, you must complete the form available on the Retraite Québec website and provide the required documents, including a death certificate.

Our advisors can answer your questions and even take charge of your requests.

2. Aide sociale pour les personnes à faible revenu

If the deceased or his or her immediate family was in a precarious financial situation, the Quebec government may offer assistance through the Social Assistance Program. This benefit is intended to cover basic funeral expenses.

Who is eligible?

• Families with low incomes.
• People without sufficient assets to cover funeral expenses.

Amount and coverage :

Assistance varies according to the family’s needs and financial situation. It may include transportation, cremation or burial costs.

How to apply :
Contact the Centre local d’emploi (CLE) or the Ministère du Travail, de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale for specific information and to start the application process.

Our advisors can answer your questions and even take charge of your requests.

3. Private and group insurance

Many people take out life insurance policies, which may include benefits to cover funeral expenses. If the deceased had private or group insurance, relatives can request payment of the benefits provided.

Steps :

• Check the deceased’s life insurance policies.
• Contact your insurer to find out how to proceed.
• Submit the necessary documents, such as the death certificate and bank details.

4. Help from community associations or organizations

Some associations and community organizations offer financial or logistical support to bereaved families, especially in cases where financial resources are limited.

For example :

• Churches or places of worship can sometimes help organize a low-cost funeral.
• Organizations like the Fonds de solidarité funéraire offer services tailored to families in need.

5. Death tax credits

The federal and provincial governments offer tax credits that can reduce the expenses associated with death, such as :

• Credit for funeral expenses, cemeteries and monuments.
• Credit for medical expenses and palliative care.

How can I benefit?
Include eligible expenses on your income tax return. An accountant or tax specialist can guide you to maximize tax benefits.