Social Assistance

The amount of Ontario Works assistance and the benefits that individuals may receive is set by the Province of Ontario and is based on individual circumstances, family size, accommodation costs and income. In most cases, you must participate in employment-related activities to receive financial help. 

Monthly Income Assistance 

Ontario Works issues income support payments monthly. Payments are issued on the last business day of the month. 

Ontario Works Payment Schedule

Health & Medical Supports

If you are eligible to receive monthly income support from Ontario Works, you may also be eligible for the following benefits: 

• Prescription drug coverage 
• Basic dental care for children 
• Vision care  
• Diabetic and surgical supplies 
• Medical transportation 
• Assistive devices 
• Other medical items and services 

Temporary Care Assistance 

Ontario Works Temporary Care Assistance can be paid to an adult who is temporarily caring for a child who is not their own, if the child is in financial need. 

The child must live with the adult and the adult cannot have a legal obligation to support the child. A child may need temporary care for a variety of reasons. For example, the parents may be temporarily unable to care for a child because of an extended health issue.   

An application for Temporary Care Assistance is based on the amount of income and assets available to the child, not to the adult who is temporarily caring for the child. 

The monthly amount of Temporary Care assistance issued is $274 for the first child and $224 for each additional child. The child may also qualify for other health-related benefits such as coverage for prescription medication. 

The adult must report any changes in the child’s income, assets or circumstances. 

To qualify for Ontario Works financial assistance, you must:

• be at least 16 years of age
• be an Ontario resident
• have assets no greater than the limits set out in the program
• be in financial need
• participate in employment activities

More information is available from the province on eligibility for Ontario Works.

When you apply, be sure to have the following information ready:

• Email addresses for all family members 18 and older
• Full names and dates of birth
• Citizenship and Immigration information
• Social Insurance Numbers 
• Health Card Numbers 
• Full address details (current and past 12 months)
• Rent or mortgage details
• Utilities details (e.g. gas and hydro)
• Landlord's name and address 
• Bank account information, (if you have one) to get your payment quickly through direct bank deposit 
• Monthly income and asset information 
• Employment status and history 
• Other expenses, such as childcare 

You will be contacted by our Ontario Works office to follow up on your application. You will be required to provide documents after you apply to determine if you qualify for ongoing financial assistance and to identify any additional supports you may need. You will need to bring your spouse and any dependents over the age of 18 with you to the in-person appointment.