I don't think that's unusual. Asking a fee would be rude and I'd go elsewhere for a signature. I'd take my ailments with me.

Do DWP send a text or email when they receive the Life Certificate?
It's been 2 weeks since I sent mine (via Canada Post) and there's no sign they have received it.
DWP stopped my pension so I'm getting concerned now.

Yes. I received a txt.

Yes me too. I think that after the cock up by DWP in 2022 whey they "forgot" to send out the life certificates and hundreds had their pensions stopped that the DWP now sends out texts to confirm receipt. They obviously need your cell phone number. For all the times before 2022, i did not receive a notification of receipt, i had to phone the international pension centre and get confirmation that way. Last time (2024) i photo copied the blank form and keep a few copies and intend to send one in every 2 years whether they ask for one or not. Dont forget May 26 was a bank holiday in UK so pension payments are disrupted a bit. I used to get a notary to witness the forms but it was about $100 now i just go in to the local Service Canada office, they do it for free.

Thank you both.

No text, but have just received an email saying that they received the Life Certificate today (15 days after posting) and I should receive payment in "5 to 10 working days"
I wish it had got there faster.

Thanks also for letting me know that Service Canada will witness a signature for free. I had no idea.