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The Daily Insight

How much of a death benefit is not taxable?

Author

James Williams

Published Feb 28, 2026

Up to $10,000 of the total of all death benefits paid (other than CPP or QPP death benefits) is not taxable. If the beneficiary received the death benefit, see line 13000 in the Federal Income Tax and Benefit Guide. If the estate received the death benefit, see the T4013, T3 Trust Guide.

Can a next of kin apply for the CPP death benefit?

Next of kin: Finally, if the other two circumstances aren’t met, the deceased’s next of kin can apply for the death benefit. Often, someone who receives the death benefit meets more than one of the requirements above.

What happens to death benefit if no beneficiary is nominated?

If no beneficiary was nominated then the benefit will be paid into the deceased’s estate. The most effective way to speed up the process is to ensure that, as a fund member, your beneficiary nomination form is kept up to date all the time and lists ALL your financial dependants.

What are the requirements for a death benefit?

If the death benefit is to be paid out, certain requirements must be met. The deceased has to have contributed to the CPP for at least three years.

Where does the death benefit go on a Canadian tax return?

The amount of the death benefit is shown in box 18 of Form T4A (P), Statement of Canada Pension Plan Benefits. Do not report this amount on the final income tax and benefit return for the deceased person.

Where does the death benefit go on a T3 return?

Where the CPP or QPP death benefit is the only income of the estate and a T3 return is not otherwise required to be filed, the death benefit can be reported directly on the T1 return of the beneficiary.

Do you pay taxes on delayed death benefits?

If the interest exceeds $600, you will receive IRS Form 1099-INT that specifies the tax you owe because of delayed death benefits. Certain retirement accounts such as 401 (k)s (but not IRAs) can hold life insurance policies with death benefits that pay beneficiaries when the account owner dies.