After a death in BC, you will need to contact medical professionals or emergency services, depending on whether the death was expected. Next, arrange transportation of the body, locate the will, and notify the family. The executor appointed in the will then needs to obtain death certificates, register the death, notify government agencies, and manage financial accounts. Do not forget to cancel identification documents and plan funeral arrangements. Support resources are available throughout this challenging process.
Immediate Actions When Someone Dies
When someone dies in British Columbia, your immediate actions will vary depending on whether the death was expected or unexpected.
For expected deaths, consult with medical professionals who were providing care. They will provide guidance on the next steps and documentation. If the death was expected in the home, and you have the Expected Death in the Home (“EDITH”) form, you can contact the funeral home directly to attend at the home to pick up your loved one.
For unexpected deaths, contact emergency services (911) or the BC Coroners Service directly. They will investigate and provide further instructions.
In either case, you will need to arrange for transportation of the body. Most people use funeral homes for this service, but if you are handling it privately, contact Service BC for guidance.
Next, locate the will to identify the executor of the estate. This person will have the legal authority to make decisions and manage the deceased’s affairs.
Begin notifying close family and friends of the death.
Obtaining Death Certificates and Registration
Registering the death and obtaining death certificates are crucial steps. In BC, funeral homes typically handle death registration, but you can also work directly with Service BC or the Vital Statistics Agency if preferred.
Death registration can be handled by funeral homes in BC, or you can work with Service BC or Vital Statistics directly.
For registration, you will need to provide the deceased’s full legal name, date and place of birth, Personal Health Number, Social Insurance Number, occupation, spouse’s name (if applicable), parents’ names and birthplaces, and intended method of disposition (burial or cremation).
Death certificates serve as official proof of death, with different organizations requiring varying numbers of certified copies. You may need multiple certificates for banks, insurance companies, property transfers, and government agencies.
Locating the Will and Identifying the Executor
After the executor arranges for the death registration and locating the deceased’s original will, the executor will be responsible for carrying out the deceased’s wishes and handling their affairs.
- Search common storage locations like home safes, filing cabinets, or safety deposit boxes
- Contact the deceased’s lawyer, as they may have the original will or a copy
- Check with the BC Vital Statistics Agency, where wills may be registered
If no will exists, someone must apply to the Court become the administrator. The executor or administrator needs multiple certified death certificates for various institutions.
If you cannot find a will, provincial intestacy laws will determine who can administer the estate and how assets will be distributed.
Notifying Government Agencies and Services
Once the executor identified and death has been registered, notifying various government agencies becomes a critical task in managing the deceased’s affairs.
Handling post-death notifications is an essential responsibility that brings administrative closure to a life lived.
You will need to contact federal agencies like Service Canada to cancel the deceased’s Social Insurance Number, CPP benefits, and passport.
Provincial notifications include cancelling the driver’s license, BCID, and BC Services Card through ICBC.
Do not forget to notify tax authorities—contact the CRA with the deceased’s SIN, death certificate, and will or probate documentation.
If the deceased received benefits from WorkSafe BC, BC Housing, or provincial pension plans, you will need to inform these agencies as well.
For property matters, contact BC Registries, Land Title Authority, or FrontCounter BC as applicable.
Always have the death certificate readily available, as most agencies will require it.
Managing Financial Accounts and Assets
Beyond government notifications, handling the deceased’s financial matters requires prompt attention to protect assets and prevent potential fraud. Contact each financial institution where the deceased held accounts to initiate the necessary processes. Death certificates will typically be required to access or transfer funds.
- Contact banks and credit unions to freeze accounts or arrange access for estate settlement.
- Notify insurance companies to cancel policies or initiate claims for life insurance benefits.
- Reach out to investment firms about transferring registered accounts and investments.
- Cancel all credit cards (including store-specific and online accounts).
- Contact credit bureaus (Equifax and TransUnion) to place a death notification on credit records.
For mortgages, you will need to contact the lender about transferring the obligation or using insurance to clear the debt.
Remember that accessing safety deposit boxes often requires special documentation.
Handling Property and Vehicle Transfers
Transferring ownership of property and vehicles following a death involves several specific processes that must be completed correctly to guarantee legal compliance. You will need to submit documentation to various provincial authorities, including death certificates and probate documents, where required.
| Asset Type | Required Documentation | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Real Property | Death Certificate, Probate | Land Title Office: 1-877-577-5872 |
| Manufactured Home | Death Certificate, Probate | BC Registry: 1-877-526-1526 |
| Vehicle | Dependant Upon Estate Value | Autoplan Broker or ICBC |
| Crown Land Interests | Death Certificate, Probate | FrontCounter BC: 1-877-855-3222 |
| Joint Tenancy Property | Death Certificate, Form 17 | Land Title Office: 1-877-577-5872 |
For vehicle transfers, visit an Autoplan broker with the required documentation. For land transfers, you will need to have a lawyer or notary submit applications through the Land Title and Survey Authority of BC.
Addressing Tax Obligations and Benefits
Managing a deceased person’s tax affairs requires prompt attention, as final tax returns must be filed and potential benefits claimed within specific timeframes.
You will need to contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) with the deceased’s Social Insurance Number, death certificate, and will or probate documentation.
- File the deceased’s final tax return by April 30th of the year following death or six months after death, whichever is later
- Apply for the Canada Pension Plan death benefit ($2,500 lump sum payment)
- Request CPP survivor’s benefits for eligible spouses or dependent children
- Check eligibility for any GST/HST credits or provincial tax credits
- Consider filing optional returns to reduce overall tax liability
You may need professional tax advice to guarantee all obligations are fulfilled and benefits maximized during this difficult time.
Cancelling Identification and Personal Documents
After a death occurs, you will need to systematically cancel the deceased’s identification documents and personal cards to prevent identity theft and close their official records.
Protect your loved one’s identity by promptly canceling their official documents after death.
Start by gathering their driver’s license, BCID, BC Services Card, passport, citizenship or permanent resident card, and any other government-issued identification.
For provincial ID, visit an ICBC licensing office or mail the documents with a death certificate copy.
Canadian passports should be mailed with an uncertified death certificate to Passport Canada.
Vehicle ownership transfers require a visit to an Autoplan broker with the necessary documentation.
Do not forget to notify Elections BC to update the voter registry and contact the RCMP Firearms Program if the deceased holds a firearms license.
Digital Legacy and Online Account Management
While many people consider physical assets in their estate planning, the digital footprint left behind after death often requires equal attention and careful management.
After someone passes, you will need to address their online presence and digital accounts to prevent identity theft and preserve important digital assets.
- Contact email providers first, as email access can help you identify other online accounts
- Look for password managers or lists that may contain login credentials
- Consider closing or memorializing social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)
- Download important photos, videos, and documents from cloud storage services
- Be aware that many platforms have specific death policies requiring documentation
Most digital services require a death certificate and documentation proving your right to access the deceased’s accounts.
Funeral Planning and Memorial Services
Beyond the digital world, planning a funeral or memorial service represents a meaningful way to honour a loved one’s life. In BC, you will need to make several decisions quickly while managing your grief. If the deceased left specific wishes in their will, try to honour these when possible.
| Service Type | Typical Timeline | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Burial | 3-7 days after death | Cemetery plot, casket, religious requirements |
| Cremation | 1-14 days after death | Urn selection, ash disposition plans |
| Green Burial | 1-3 days after death | Available at select cemeteries only |
| Memorial Service | Flexible timing | Can be held with or without remains present |
| Celebration of Life | Weeks/months later | Often less formal, focuses on positive memories |
Consider contacting a funeral home to help coordinate these arrangements while you focus on gathering with family.
Finding Support Resources for Grief and Practical Assistance
The journey through grief after losing a loved one can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate it alone.
British Columbia offers numerous resources to help with both emotional support and practical matters during this difficult time.
- BC Bereavement Helpline (1-877-779-2223) provides grief support and connects you with local counselling services.
- Crisis Centre BC (1-800-784-2433) offers 24/7 emotional support for those in distress.
- Service BC (1-800-663-7867) can guide you through government-related processes and paperwork.
- Ministry of Social Development’s Funeral Cost Supplement (1-866-866-0800) may provide financial assistance for funeral expenses.
- Service Canada (1-800-277-9914) assists with federal benefits like CPP death benefits and survivor’s pensions.
How Vest Estate Law Can Help
As you navigate the complex aftermath of losing a loved one, Vest Estate Law offers specialized legal support tailored to your unique situation. Our boutique firm exclusively focuses on wills and estates law across British Columbia and Alberta, bringing depth of expertise to every case.
When you are dealing with estate administration, our team can guide you through the process step-by-step, from probate applications to asset distribution.
If disputes arise, we excel at estate litigation, protecting your interests while seeking timely resolutions.
You do not need to manage complex legal matters alone during this difficult time. Working with a focused estate law firm like Vest guarantees you’ll receive knowledgeable guidance on matters specific to BC law, helping you fulfill your responsibilities with confidence and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if the Deceased Had Pets?
You will need to find immediate care for the deceased’s pets. Consider family members, friends, or animal shelters who can adopt them or provide temporary housing until permanent arrangements are made.
How Long Does Probate Typically Take in British Columbia?
In British Columbia, probate typically takes 2-3 months for simple estates, but you will need to allow 6-12 months for more complex cases. Delays can occur during busy court periods.
Can Cultural or Religious Death Customs Be Accommodated?
Yes, you can accommodate cultural and religious death customs in BC. Funeral homes, cemeteries, and medical facilities typically respect diverse traditions regarding body preparation, burial, and mourning practices.
What if Family Members Disagree About Funeral Arrangements?
When family members disagree about funeral arrangements, you will need to consult the will first. If no will exists, the administrator, spouse, or eldest child has final decision-making authority under BC law.
How Do I Handle the Deceased’s Medical Equipment Rentals?
Contact the equipment rental company with the death certificate. Return the items promptly to avoid additional charges. If you are unsure who provided the equipment, check medical records or recent bills.
Conclusion
You are now equipped with the essential steps to navigate the aftermath of a death in BC. By understanding your legal obligations and practical responsibilities, you will face fewer complications during this challenging time. Remember, you do not have to manage this process alone—professional support is available. Taking deliberate, informed actions will help you honour your loved one while properly managing their affairs.
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Call (604) 256-7152 [toll free 1 (877) 415-1484] to get routed to the best representative to serve you or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
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Myron Plett
WILLS and ESTATES LAWYER
Myron is a seasoned litigator with nearly twenty years of experience and a broad range of skills that has led to significant successes in the Provincial Court of British Columbia, the Supreme Court of British Columbia. He has also taken his clients to victory before tribunals such as the Residential Tenancy Branch and the BC Human Rights Tribunal.
