Coping with grief: Personal and financial support for beneficiaries following a death

There is a loss support service through life insurance that helps beneficiaries cope during this difficult time. It offers structured, reassuring, human support that takes into account both emotional needs and financial realities.

The emotional and administrative impacts of grief

Losing a loved one brings much more than just sadness. Grief can sometimes also be accompanied by emotional exhaustion, a sense of disorganization and feelings of loneliness. Everyone reacts differently, but one thing is certain: it’s hard to juggle all these responsibilities at once.

Families have many things to take care of in connection with a death. Notifying the authorities, arranging the funeral, contacting financial institutions, handling administrative matters… these obligations can often arise suddenly and may seem overwhelming.

In addition, the emotional issues and these administrative tasks are often happening at the same time. Even when the steps are clearly defined, the task can seem daunting for the affected family members. Clear and compassionate support helps lighten the burden they feel and allows them to move forward one step at a time.

Preparing for the death of a loved one: Practical steps and strategies

The loss of a loved one is a delicate subject, but careful estate planning can be a big help. There are things that can be done beforehand to reduce uncertainty and simplify the tasks to be done after the death.

For example:

• clearly designating life insurance beneficiaries
• informing loved ones about the financial protection in place
• gathering important documents
• starting to think about estate planning

These preparations make it easier to understand the steps to be taken and help loved ones be better prepared.

What to do after the death of a loved one: the essential first steps

In the days following the death of a loved one, there are certain steps involved in getting the administrative process started.

Steps to be taken immediately

The first steps are to:

• obtain a death certificate
• contact a funeral home
• organize a ceremony
• inform the family and other loved ones
• advise certain organizations (banks, insurance companies, governments)
• gather personal and financial documents

These initial steps are important because they lay the groundwork for handling the legal and financial aspects later on. Even when the bereaved know all the steps that need to be taken, it can still seem difficult. At times like these, having someone to support them can make a real difference.

Filing a life insurance claim

Filing a life insurance claim is an important step for the beneficiaries named in the policy, as it allows them to receive the financial support provided for in the policy.

Depending on the situation, the following documents are normally required:

• a death certificate
• a claim form
• proof of identity

Even though the process is simple, it comes at a very emotionally charged time. A financial advisor can support beneficiaries through the process, helping them to better understand the steps involved, gather the necessary documents and track the progress of their claim at their own pace.

How can beneficiaries be supported beyond just the money they receive?

The primary purpose of life insurance is to provide financial protection in the event of death. Empathy, a compassionate loss support service, provides emotional and logistical support to life insurance beneficiaries following a death.

Empathy: a human approach to loss

Empathy is a loss support service offered free of charge to Canadians eligible for individual life insurance policy benefits at the time a death claim is filed.

Empathy supports loved ones by offering:

• clear explanations for administrative and logistical processes
• compassionate, human support
• practical tools
• practical resources for each specific situation

Personalized support during the grieving process

Everyone’s journey through grief is unique. Some people are focused on understanding the steps ahead, while others feel the need for support or guidance.

An approach that combines the human and financial sides

The support provided through our partnership with Empathy is based on a comprehensive approach that combines:

• financial assistance from life insurance
• emotional support
• practical tools to help simplify the process

This combination helps beneficiaries feel supported, informed and less alone. It also helps reduce the mental load associated with the many decisions that need to be made.

The role of life insurance for beneficiaries

Life insurance plays an important role in ensuring the financial stability of loved ones after a death. Depending on the situation, the money can be used to:

• pay for funeral costs
• cover ongoing expenses
• maintain the family’s lifestyle
• pay off certain financial obligations

This support helps alleviate immediate concerns and gives loved ones a little breathing room during a difficult time.

Beneficiaries also appreciate the peace of mind it brings, as it allows them to focus on their grief and on their loved ones.

Here are answers to the questions families most often ask after a death.

After the death of a loved one, what do I have to do first?
The first thing to do is obtain the attestation of death and the death certificate. Then, you’ll need to contact a funeral home and begin the necessary procedures with the relevant agencies.

What does the life insurance claim process look like for beneficiaries?
When filing a claim, beneficiaries must submit the required documents to the insurer. Once the claim has been reviewed and approved, the insurer may pay the benefits provided for in the policy.

Do beneficiaries receive any support other than financial assistance?
Yes. Beneficiaries of individual life insurance policies that include bereavement support services can access these services free of charge through our partnership with Empathy.

Who is the support offered through Empathy intended for?
Beneficiaries of individual life insurance policies that include bereavement support services can access these services. The service is provided free of charge, in English and French, for up to two years after the claim is filed. To learn more, contact your financial advisor.