Service Canada Social Security Agreements: What You Need to Know

If you`ve been working in Canada and are planning to move or retire abroad, you may be wondering what will happen to your social security benefits. Fortunately, Canada has agreements with many countries around the world to ensure that you can continue receiving your benefits even if you`re living outside of the country.

These agreements are known as Social Security Agreements (SSAs) and are designed to eliminate dual social security coverage and taxation for people who work in more than one country during their career. The agreements also provide for social security benefit portability, which means that you can move from one country to another and continue receiving benefits without interruption.

Service Canada is the government agency responsible for administering these agreements on behalf of the Canadian government. The agency provides guidance and information to Canadians who are planning to move abroad or who are already living outside of the country.

SSAs typically apply to retired workers, survivors, and disabled individuals. They also cover family members who are dependent on the beneficiary`s benefits. The agreements generally cover two types of benefits: retirement, and survivor (or death) benefits.

The countries with which Canada has signed SSAs include the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Germany, and many others. Each agreement has its own set of rules and requirements, so it`s important to understand the specific provisions of the agreement that applies to you.

To benefit from an SSA, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements. For example, you must have contributed to the social security system in both countries, and you must be eligible for benefits in each country individually. You may also need to provide proof of your Canadian social security contributions, such as a record of your earnings.

To apply for benefits under an SSA, you should contact the social security agency in the country where you live. If you`re living in Canada, you can contact Service Canada for assistance. The agency can help you understand your eligibility for benefits under an SSA, and can provide you with the forms and information you need to apply.

In conclusion, if you`re planning to move abroad, it`s important to understand the social security agreements that Canada has in place with other countries. These agreements can help you continue receiving your benefits without interruption, and can eliminate dual coverage and taxation. Contact Service Canada for more information on your eligibility for benefits under an SSA.