What To Do When Someone Dies: Online CRA Hub
Dealing with the death of someone close is one of the most emotionally challenging and overwhelming experiences anyone can face. On top of the grief, there’s often a long list of practical steps that need to be taken—many of which are confusing, time-sensitive, and not easy to navigate.
Recognizing how hard this time can be, the Canadian government has launched a new online resource to make things easier for people dealing with a death in the family. The new “What to do when someone dies” Hub is a one-stop website designed to guide Canadians through the process with clarity and compassion.
Why has the CRA created an online hub for executors?
Until now, finding the right information after someone passes away often meant digging through different government sites, forms, and checklists—while also trying to process a deeply emotional event. The new hub changes that by putting all the essential information in one place.
Whether you’re a grieving family member, a friend helping, a funeral home staff member, or the executor of someone’s estate, this site helps guide you through the process step by step.
How does the CRA’s “What to do when someone dies” portal work?
The heart of the new hub is its personalized questionnaire. By answering a few basic questions, the site will create a custom checklist tailored to your situation. It points you to the benefits and services that apply specifically to you and your loved one, saving time and reducing confusion.
It covers topics like:
- Applying for government benefits and payments
- Understanding what support might be available to spouses, children, or other survivors
- Learning about student loan forgiveness or other financial considerations
- Identifying services that may apply to Indigenous families or those from military or public service backgrounds
This initiative builds on the earlier success of the Retirement Hub, which helped hundreds of thousands of Canadians understand their retirement options. Just like that tool, this new life event hub is designed to provide support during a major life transition—but with an even greater focus on simplicity and emotional care.
The goal is to help Canadians feel less alone during a tough time, by offering clear, relevant guidance right when they need it most.
What Types of Supports can Executors in Canada Receive
Depending on the situation, you may be eligible for different types of support, such as:
- Survivor benefits or pensions
- A one-time death benefit
- Special supports for parents, students, and more
The exact amount and type of help available will depend on the person’s background and life circumstances, but the hub makes it easier to find what applies to you.
Losing someone is hard. Finding the help you need shouldn’t be. This new online hub is a compassionate step forward in making sure Canadians are supported—not just with words, but with real, accessible help.
Of course, Achen Henderson CPAs is always here to help you with your Estate Tax Planning tax considerations during your lifetime and filing a loved ones Estate Tax Returns after they have passed away.
If you or someone you know is navigating the loss of a loved one, we are here to help you through the next steps.