Social Services and Funeral Assistance
Basic Funerals believes that everyone has the right to a dignified funeral. Municipalities across Ontario offer coverage for funeral services on behalf of residents whose estates cannot otherwise cover the cost. Contact us today for more information or to begin the application process.
Please note: When a municipality pays for funeral expenses, they receive the Proof of Death Certificates and begin their process of recouping losses from the deceased’s accounts. When they are satisfied, they will release the certificates to the family. They typically require a written request for certificates, and their process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. The funeral home will be unable to provide Proof of Death Certificates to anyone without the municipality’s permission.
The Canadian Pension Plan
What It Is
The Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) provides survivors with 2 types of support. The first is a one-time payment to the estate on behalf of the deceased. The second is a monthly pension.
What It Covers
- Death Benefit – A one-time payment of $2,500 is paid to the estate (Click here for more information)
- Survivor’s Pension and Child(ren)’s Benefit – A monthly pension paid to the survivors of the deceased (Click here for more information)
What You Need To Know
- Failure to apply for CPP benefits within a year of the death will result in forfeiture of benefits
- Additional funds (up to $177.33) may be available to dependents with children 18 years of age or younger who are enrolled in a full-time academic programme
How To Apply
- Complete the Application for a CPP Death Benefit and Survivor’s Pension and Children’s Benefit (provided by Basic Funerals)
- Include certified true copies of the required documentation
- Mail to the address provided on the form
Ontario Works
What It Is
Ontario Works is a service provided to help offset basic funeral expenses for those who cannot afford it. Provided on behalf of the deceased, Ontario Works may cover the cost of funeral services including transfer of the deceased from the place of death, cremation, burial plot, urn, or casket.
What It Covers
- Transfer of body from place of death to funeral home
- Purchase of burial plot. If the deceased owns a plot, Ontario Works will assist with the fees associated with opening and closing.
- Cremation including scattering or burial of cremated remains
What You Need To Know
- Ontario Works must approve services prior to signing a contract with funeral home, crematorium, or cemetery
- Ontario Works entitled to any funeral funds available in the estate
- The deceased does not have to have been a recipient of Ontario Works during life to benefit from the services after the death has occurred
How To Apply
- For individuals who were recipients of Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Plan (ODSP), Basic Funerals can complete the application on their behalf
- For individuals who were not recipients of Ontario Works or ODSP, our team of funeral professionals will assist you with the application process