Monthly retirement pension, beginning as early as 60 years or as late as 70 years

• full pension if started at 65 years
• reduced pension if started before 65 years
• increased pension if started after 65 years

Post-Retirement Benefit -- for workers 60-70 years who continue to contribute to CPP while receiving a CPP pension

Disability benefits -- for contributors under 65 years

• allowance for dependent children

Survivor benefits -- monthly pension for surviving spouse or common law partner

• children's benefit for dependent children of deceased contributor
• death benefit (lump sum payment to estate, or persons responsible for funeral costs)

Amount of benefits payable is in proportion to contributions

• pension credits earned by either spouse may be divided equally (credit splitting) on termination of marriage or common law partnership

Social Security Tribunal, 1-877-227-8577 -- independent appeal process for Canada Pension Plan decisions, see separate entry

Program of Employment and Social Development Canada, delivered by Service Canada

Retirement Hub - information and resources on pensions and retirement planning

Recorded information Mon-Sun 24 hours, all Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm to speak to an agent

Apply 6 months before you want your pension to start (not automatic)

• apply online, by mail or in person at Service Canada sites -- see separate entries
• application forms available online