Who you can name as a beneficiary

Learn who you can name as a beneficiary to receive your pension benefit when you die.

1. Name an organization as your beneficiary

3. Name a trustee for a beneficiary

5. Name beneficiaries in your will

2. Name a trust as your beneficiary

4. Name your estate as your beneficiary

If you have a spouse

Your spouse is automatically your beneficiary if you are married or in a common-law relationship of more than two years. However, your spouse can formally waive their rights to the pension benefit they would receive if you die.

If your spouse gives up their rights to your pension benefit, you can name other people or organizations as your beneficiary or beneficiaries. These can include your children, other family members, friends, organizations and trusts.