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.

Should you put funeral wishes in your will in Quebec?

No — or at least, not only. Wills in Quebec are often read after the funeral has already taken place. Your funeral wishes must be recorded in a separate document given to loved ones while you are alive, or better yet, in a formalized pre-arrangement.

Putting Funeral Wishes in a Will in Quebec: Why It Often Fails

Many people believe they have planned their funeral well because they wrote their wishes into their will. This is a common mistake — and it can leave your family without guidance at the moment they need it most.

The problem with the will

In Quebec, a will is not typically read immediately after death. Its verification or probate by a notary takes time — sometimes several weeks. Yet funerals must be organized within 24 to 72 hours of death. If your funeral wishes only exist in your will, your family will make decisions without knowing your preferences. Your instructions may simply arrive too late.

The right solution: a separate document given now

Draft a separate document — sometimes called a "letter of wishes" or "personal directive" — in which you clearly indicate:

Burial or cremation
Type of ceremony desired (religious, secular, private, public)
Place of burial or destination of ashes
Music, readings, people invited to speak
Organ donation or body donation to science
Preferred funeral home (or a pre-arrangement already signed)

Give this document to a trusted person — spouse, adult child — and inform your notary of its existence. It does not replace the will, but it guides immediate decisions.

The protection mandate and advance medical directives

In Quebec, a protection mandate (mandat en cas d'inaptitude) allows you to designate someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. While primarily used for healthcare and property management, it can include general instructions about your values and end-of-life preferences.

Advance medical directives — formally governed by the Act Respecting End-of-Life Care — allow you to express your wishes regarding medical care at the end of life. This is not a funeral document, but it is complementary to your overall planning.

The pre-arrangement: the most complete solution

A formal pre-arrangement with an OPC-licensed funeral home is the most complete and most protected form of funeral planning. It specifies all the details of your funeral, funds are held in trust, and the funeral home is immediately informed at the time of death. No ambiguity, no delays.

Updated: March 2026