What are funeral pre-arrangements?

Funeral pre-arrangements allow you to plan and, if you choose, prepay your funeral in advance. This protects your family from having to make difficult decisions during a time of grief.

Is it legally binding?

In Quebec, funeral pre-arrangement contracts are governed by the Act respecting prearranged funeral services and sepultures. A signed contract with a partner funeral home is legally binding and regulated by the province.

How much does it cost?

Costs vary based on your choices (cremation, burial, ceremony). Our free guide includes a detailed price grid. See our pricing page for current ranges in Quebec.

Is my money protected?

Yes. In Quebec, funds paid under a pre-arrangement contract must be placed in a trust fund or annuity. Your money is protected by law even if the funeral home closes.

Can I change my mind later?

Yes. You can modify your arrangements or cancel your contract. Refund terms are governed by Quebec law. Our advisors can guide you through the process at no cost.

Is it available everywhere in Quebec?

Our partner network covers all of Quebec including Montreal, Quebec City, Laval, Gatineau, Sherbrooke and remote regions. Start online and a local advisor will follow up with you.

How long does it take?

Completing your online questionnaire takes about 15 minutes. You receive a personalized plan within 48 hours. Signing your contract with our funeral partner typically takes a one-hour meeting.

Are funeral pre-arrangements transferable if I move?

Yes, in most cases. Quebec funeral pre-arrangement contracts can be transferred to another funeral home, particularly if you move to another region or province. Check the portability terms in your contract before signing.

Are Funeral Pre-Arrangements Transferable in Quebec?

Life brings surprises. A move to another city, province, or even abroad — these changes should not cost you the funds invested in your pre-arrangement. Here is what you need to know about the portability of these contracts.

Portability: a key element to verify

Portability refers to the ability to transfer your pre-arrangement contract (and the associated trust funds) to another funeral home if your place of residence changes. Not all contracts are identical in this regard — which is why it is essential to ask before signing.

The funeral cooperative network

Funeral homes affiliated with the Fédération des coopératives funéraires du Québec (FCFQ) generally offer portability within their provincial network. If you move from one region to another in Quebec and both locations have a member cooperative, transfer is often possible without significant additional fees.

Transfer to another province

Inter-provincial transfers are more complex. Some major North American funeral groups have establishments in multiple provinces and can facilitate such transfers. For independent funeral homes, you will need to negotiate directly with the new provider. In all cases, the trust funds belong to you — the question is whether the provider will accept transferring the existing contract or whether you need to close the first and open a new one.

What the law provides

The Act Respecting Prearranged Funeral Services and Sepultures (RLRQ, chapter A-23.001) governs cancellation and transfer conditions. It does not automatically guarantee portability to any funeral home, but it protects your trust funds and gives you the right to cancel with a refund under certain conditions if transfer is not possible.

What to ask before signing

Is the contract transferable to other establishments in your network?
Are transfer fees applicable?
What happens if I move to a province where you have no partner establishment?
What is the procedure to initiate a transfer?

Keep a copy of your contract

Always keep an original copy of your pre-arrangement contract — and inform a trusted person of its existence and location. In the event of a move, it will be your reference document for initiating any transfer process.

Updated: March 2026