What’s a trusted contact person?

A trusted contact person has your interests, goals and needs at heart. They should ideally be an adult and not have any stake in your finances. This person should be reliable, honest and willing to help you if you find yourself in a vulnerable situation. They’ll serve as your point of contact when it comes to your finances.

Ask yourself: if you’re ever in a vulnerable situation, who would you want in your corner? This person can be:

• A friend
• A family member
• Your partner
• A neighbour
• A professional

What's a vulnerable person?

A vulnerable person is someone who is temporarily or permanently in a situation that may affect their ability to make informed decisions. This vulnerability may occur suddenly or over a period of time. Several factors might place someone in a vulnerable situation:

• Cognitive impairment
• Physical impairment
• Psychological impairment

The role of a trusted contact person

You retain control of your personal finances at all times. We’ll contact your trusted contact person only in certain situations (as previously decided by you), such as if:

• We suspect that you’re in a vulnerable situation and want to share our concerns
• We’re unsure of your ability to make financial decisions that are in your best interest
• We’re unsure of your ability to understand financial issues or the consequences of your financial decisions
• We suspect that you’re being financially exploited or mistreated

The limits a trusted contact person must respect

A trusted contact person has a limited role.

• They cannot make financial decisions in your place or act on your behalf
• They must maintain complete confidentiality
• They don’t have access to your accounts

You can choose a trusted contact person at any time.

Don’t have a trusted contact person?

Ask your advisor if you don’t have someone you can designate as a trusted contact person. They can help you select 1 or 2 people.

Designate someone

You must designate someone, and give us permission to contact them, in writing. A document or form signed by you is kept in your file.