Ontario Works
OW
Ontario Works (OW) provides short-term financial assistance to people in urgent financial need, helping pay for food, housing, and other basic needs. It also offers employment assistance to help you find, prepare for, and keep a job. OW is Ontario's general social assistance program for people who do not qualify for ODSP.
Useful Tips for Applying
If you have a disability, ask your caseworker about being referred for an ODSP assessment, which can provide a higher, longer-term rate. Keep receipts for disability-related expenses, as some may be covered. You can receive health benefits (such as drug coverage) through OW while you work toward employment.
Who May Qualify
You may qualify if you live in Ontario, are 16 or older, are in financial need (your income and assets are below program limits), and are willing to make reasonable efforts to find, prepare for, and keep a job. People with a long-term disability may be referred to ODSP instead.
Required Documents
Government-issued ID, Social Insurance Number, proof of Ontario residency, proof of income and assets (bank statements, pay stubs), and housing cost information (rent receipt or mortgage statement).
How to Apply
Apply online or by phone through your local Ontario Works office. You will have an intake appointment where a caseworker assesses your income, assets, and housing costs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is not applying because you are employed — you may still qualify if your income is very low. Another is not reporting all income and assets, which can lead to overpayments you must repay. People also confuse OW with ODSP; if you have a long-term disability, ask to be assessed for ODSP instead, which has a higher rate.
Where to Get Help
Your local Ontario Works office and caseworker handle applications and ongoing support. Community legal clinics can help if your application is denied or you face an overpayment.
Am I Eligible?
Answer three quick questions to see your recommended next step. This is general guidance, not an eligibility decision.
Question 1 of 3
You may also be eligible for…
Ontario Transitional Health Benefit
Temporary health coverage for some people leaving ODSP for employment, helping with prescription drugs, dental, and vision while they transition.
Learn moreOntario Long-Term Care Home Rate Reduction Program
Reduced basic accommodation rates for eligible long-term care residents who cannot afford the standard co-payment.
Learn moreOntario Disability Support Program
Ontario's income and employment support program for people with disabilities. It provides monthly financial assistance and health benefits. As of July 1, 2026, core rates (including basic needs and maximum shelter) increased by 1.9% to account for inflation. A single person may receive up to $1,436/month ($825 basic needs + $611 maximum shelter).
Learn morePreparing an application?
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
Need help with this application?
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Application denied?
If your application is turned down, the Appeals Guide explains filing deadlines, escalation levels, and where to find free legal and advocate help.
Resources in this area
Community Living Ontario
Community Living Ontario is a provincial non-profit organization that advocates for people who have an intellectual disability and their families across Ontario. It works alongside 128 local agencies and advocates with people who have intellectual disabilities to build inclusive communities.
View details Legal ServicesARCH Disability Law Centre
ARCH Disability Law Centre is a specialty legal clinic that practices exclusively in disability rights law. Since 1979, ARCH has been a leader in disability rights advocacy and test case litigation, dedicated to defending and advancing the equality rights, entitlements, fundamental freedoms, and inclusion of persons with disabilities with low income in Ontario. ARCH is primarily funded by Legal Aid Ontario and provides legal advice, representation in test cases and human rights matters, public legal education, and law reform.
View details Equipment & Assistive TechCogeco Accessibility Services
Cogeco offers accessibility accommodations for customers in Ontario and Quebec including large-print and braille billing, TTY relay services, closed captioning, described video, and accessible customer service. Cogeco also participates in the Connecting Families program for low-income households.
View detailsAccessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
