How to Cancel a Health Card in Nova Scotia After a Death

Dealing with the death of a loved one involves many responsibilities, one of which is managing their administrative affairs, including the cancellation of their health card. In Nova Scotia, this process is essential to prevent identity theft and ensure accurate public records.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cancel a health card in Nova Scotia after a death.

Importance of Cancelling a Health Card

Cancelling the health card of a deceased individual is important for several reasons:

1. Preventing Fraud: It helps prevent identity theft and fraudulent use of healthcare services.
2. Administrative Accuracy: It ensures that health records are up-to-date and accurate.
3. Estate Management: It is a necessary step in the overall process of managing and settling the deceased’s estate.

Steps to Cancel a Health Card in Nova Scotia

1. Gather Necessary Documents

Before you begin the cancellation process, ensure you have the following documents:

• Proof of Death: This can be a death certificate issued by the province, a Medical Certificate of Death, or a funeral director's statement of death.
• Health Card: The deceased’s health card, if available.
• Personal Identification: Your ID to prove your relationship to the deceased, such as a driver’s license or passport.

2. Notify Nova Scotia Health Card Services

Health card cancellations in Nova Scotia are managed by the Nova Scotia Health Card Services. There are multiple ways to notify them:

By Mail

Sending the necessary documents by mail is a common and straightforward method. Follow these steps:

1. Write a cover letter explaining the request to cancel the health card. Include the deceased’s full name, health card number (if available), and date of death.
2. Enclose photocopies of the proof of death and your identification.
3. Mail the documents to:

MSI Registration and Enquiry
PO Box 500
Halifax, NS B3J 2S1

By Phone

You can also inform Nova Scotia Health Card Services by phone. This initial contact can clarify any specific requirements or additional steps:

1. Call MSI Registration and Enquiry at 1-800-563-8880 (toll-free within Nova Scotia) or 902-496-7008 (within the Halifax area).
2. Provide the necessary information over the phone. They may instruct you to send the documents by mail for verification.

In Person

While less common, you may choose to visit an office in person to cancel the health card. Here’s how:

1. Visit the MSI Registration and Enquiry office. Check the location and hours of operation on the Nova Scotia Health Card Services website.
2. Bring the original documents: the deceased’s health card, proof of death, and your identification.
3. Request the cancellation of the health card from the representative.

3. Inform Other Relevant Agencies

In addition to cancelling the health card, notify other relevant agencies and organizations:

• Canada Revenue Agency (CRA): For tax purposes, inform the CRA by calling 1-800-959-8281.
• Service Canada: Notify Service Canada to stop benefits like Old Age Security (OAS) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). Contact them at 1-800-277-9914.

4. Secure Personal Information

After cancelling the health card, take steps to secure the deceased’s personal information:

• Destroy the Health Card: Safely destroy the health card by cutting it into pieces once it has been cancelled.
• Monitor Financial Accounts: Ensure no fraudulent activity occurs by monitoring the deceased’s financial accounts.
• Notify Financial Institutions: Inform banks, credit card companies, and other financial institutions of the death.

Tips for a Smooth Process

Double-Check Documentation

Ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submitting them. Missing or incorrect information can cause delays.

Keep Copies

Make copies of all documents for your records, including the cover letter, proof of death, and identification.

Follow Up

If you have not received confirmation that the health card has been cancelled after a few weeks, follow up with Nova Scotia Health Card Services to ensure your request has been processed.

Cancelling a health card in Nova Scotia after a death is a necessary step in settling a deceased loved one’s affairs. By following the proper procedures and ensuring all documentation is in order, you can complete this process efficiently and with minimal stress. Remember to also inform other relevant agencies and secure the deceased’s personal information to prevent identity theft and fraud. This not only helps protect their legacy but also ensures that their administrative records are correctly updated.

If you have any further questions or need assistance, contacting Nova Scotia Health Card Services directly can provide additional guidance and support.