Ontario Works Financial Assistance
Ontario Works is a social assistance program in Ontario, managed by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services. It provides financial help for food, housing, and health benefits for eligible individuals and families.
What Ontario Works Offers
- Money for living expenses, including food and rent, for you and eligible family members
- Health benefits for you and eligible family members
The amount you receive depends on your situation. For example, a single person may get up to $733 per month for basic needs and shelter. You may receive more if you have a spouse or child, or for benefits like transportation to medical appointments.
The Canada Disability Benefit is exempt as income, so it won't affect your eligibility or payment amount.
Eligibility
Official page does not list specific income thresholds, but states that if you need financial assistance for food and housing and are in financial need, you can apply. In most cases, you must participate in employment-related activities.
How to Apply
You can apply:
- Online: Takes 20-30 minutes. Submit one application for you and your immediate family.
- By phone: Call the Social Assistance Support Line at 1-888-999-1142 (TTY: 1-800-387-5559).
- In person: Visit your local Ontario Works office.
Before applying online, have your family's ID and tax documents ready, such as SIN, OHIP cards, birth certificates, immigration papers, tax returns, and banking info.
Online steps:
- Fill in personal information (names, DOB, status, address, email, income, assets, housing costs, expenses, bank account).
- An intake worker reviews your application and may ask for more documents (proof of income, shelter costs, bank statements, etc.).
- You'll be notified within 4 business days if approved.
- Develop a plan for employment-related activities.
Check Status
- Online: use your application number.
- By phone or in person: use MyBenefits or call the support line.
Reviews and Appeals
You can request an internal review and appeal to the Social Benefits Tribunal.
Payment Dates
Payments are issued monthly on the last business day of the previous month. See official page for exact dates.
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