Ontario Works

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.

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).

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.

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.