How do I designate a beneficiary on a registered account?

A beneficiary is the person you designate to receive your investments after your death.

Here's how to add a beneficiary to a registered account (RESP, RRSP, TFSA, etc.):

1. Complete the 12724 form which is available on the Forms page and enter the seven-character account number. Please note that a separate form is required for each type of account.
2. Signed form via the secure Message Centre. Your request may take between 2 and 5 business days to process.

 

Important

This form is only valid in provinces and territories where the law allows it to be used outside of the will. For example, in Quebec, you cannot designate a beneficiary. This person can only be designated in a will, and the laws of estate settlement will apply. To learn more, consult our article What happens to an RRSP after death?