You can receive a surviving spouse's pension and a retirement pension or a surviving spouse's pension and a disability pension. In such a case, the Régie des rentes du Québec pays both pensions in a single amount. The two pensions are then said to be "combined".

The amount of a combined pension is not necessarily equal to the sum of both pensions, as it is subject to a maximum set by the law.  

If you receive the maximum retirement pension payable according to the age at which you began receiving it, your surviving spouse's pension could be reduced to zero at age 65.

In this case, he or she probably contributed to the Canada Pension Plan. We take these contributions into account in determining entitlement to survivors' benefits and in calculating the amount of the surviving spouse's pension.

In such a case, he or she might have contributed to the plan of that country. You could be entitled to benefits. Consult the list of countries with which Québec has a social security agreement. Then, check to see whether you are eligible to receive a pension from a foreign country.

Inquire! Other programs could certainly help you 

If you are not entitled to survivors' benefits or if you are receiving a pension and the amount is not enough to meet your needs, you may be eligible for a benefit from a private insurance plan or for financial assistance from the Ministère de l'Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale.

In addition, we suggest that you contact Communication-Québec to find out about all of the programs for people with low incomes.