CPP credits earned during marriage can be equally split between divorcing spouses through credit splitting

When couples divorce in Canada, the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) credits accumulated by both partners during their marriage or common-law relationship can be divided equally through a process called CPP credit splitting. This division occurs regardless of which spouse made the contributions.

The credit split can affect:

• Future CPP retirement pension amounts
• CPP disability benefits
• CPP survivor benefits
• Children’s benefits

To initiate credit splitting, either spouse can apply through Service Canada. The split applies only to credits earned while living together, and once approved, this division is permanent and cannot be cancelled, even if both parties agree.