Losing a loved one is overwhelming, yet administrative steps must begin quickly. To help you move forward, here’s a clear, practical checklist designed for the Quebec context. You’ll find which documents to gather, priorities for the first 24 hours, steps for the first week, and key fiscal and estate matters. The goal: save time, avoid omissions, and reduce stress.
Key Takeaways
- Gathering the death certificate and ID within 24 hours facilitates all procedures.
- Checking pre-arrangements avoids duplicate costs.
- A will search is mandatory before estate settlement.
- An interactive PDF and short video simplify the family’s follow-up.
Why a Checklist Saves Time
In the days following a death, it’s easy to get lost among certificates, requests, and notifications. An organized checklist lets you handle each task once, without backtracking. It also serves as a coordination tool between family members and the notary when needed.
Documents to Gather Within 24 Hours
Death Certificate
Request the official death certificate from the Directeur de l’état civil. This document is required for most formalities: banks, insurance, public plans, and tax files.
Funeral Contract and Pre-Arrangements
If pre-arrangements were made, confirm included services with the funeral home to avoid duplicate costs. To understand what can be planned in advance, see our funeral pre-arrangements.
Health Card and IDs
Collect the health insurance card, social insurance card, and one ID. The RAMQ card will be deactivated during the declaration process.
Papers to Handle During the First Week
Employment Insurance and Group Plans
Contact Employment Insurance or the group insurer to stop payments and claim, if applicable, death benefits. Have the death certificate and policy numbers ready.
Compte bancaire et services courants
Notify the bank promptly. A joint account may allow continuity for essential payments, but confirm terms. Make a list of recurring payments: mortgage, utilities, telecom, insurance.
Public Benefits and Pensions
Report the death to Revenu Québec and the Canada Revenue Agency. Also inquire about the Quebec Pension Plan survivor benefits and the death benefit if applicable. Keep copies of all forms sent.
Fiscal and Estate Steps
Revenu Québec and Final Returns
Set a timeline for deadlines. Some final returns must be filed within specific periods. Keep a record of all supporting documents and correspondence.
Will Search
This step is mandatory before beginning liquidation. It confirms the existence of a will and identifies the most recent version.
To learn more about methods and costs, consult Will Search: Price and Methods.
Personal Rights Register
This register, managed by the Chambre des notaires, lists notarized wills. Check if there’s an entry under the deceased’s name. If so, contact the notary for the necessary documents.
FAQ
Where to Request the Death Certificate?
From the Directeur de l’état civil du Québec. Processing times vary depending on the season.
How Long Does It Take to Settle an Estate?
It depends on the estate’s complexity. Expect several months, or more if assets need to be sold.
Is a Notary Always Required?
No, but notarial support secures key steps, avoids errors, and simplifies coordination.
Conclusion
A checklist tailored for Quebec reduces uncertainty and back-and-forth. By prioritizing essential documents in the first 24 hours, structuring the first week, and planning fiscal and estate steps, you stay in control despite the challenge. To prepare in advance, explore our funeral pre-arrangements.
