Apply for Ontario Works

Ontario Works provides supports to people in temporary financial need and may include:

• Financial assistance to help cover the costs of basic needs like food and housing
• Health benefits such as drug coverage for you and your family
• Supportive case management to connect you with person-centered services and prepare you to participate in employment services through Employment Ontario. Most recipients are expected to engage in activities that support their path toward employment.

​Ontario Works supports vulnerable residents and helps prevent or reduce the impact of unexpected life events—such as job loss.

Benefit amounts are set by the Province and vary based on factors like family size, income, and housing costs.

For more information on the various types of assistance available and eligibility requirements, please visit Social assistance | ontario.ca

To learn about the rights and responsibilities you and your family have when you apply for or receive support from Ontario Works: Ontario Works Rights and Responsibilities

Visit Social assistance | ontario.ca to apply online. There are tools to help you determine the correct program to apply for and to submit and track the status of your application. ​

If you do not have access to the internet and need help with applying for assistance, please contact the Social Assistance Support Line Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at 1-888-999-1142.

All Bruce County Human Services office locations have computers and telephones available for your use to complete your online or telephone application.

In-person applications at local offices are only available for specific situations:

• Applicants under 18 years of age
• Individuals applying for Temporary Care Assistance
• Individuals applying for Emergency Assistance

Make sure all adult family members included in your application are with you when you apply so they can provide their consent and confirm their information. Have your family’s identification and documents ready:

• Social insurance numbers (SIN)
• Health Cards and Birth certificates
• Immigration Documents
• Income tax returns / Information about any income sources
• Banking information and Information about your assets
• Information about your living expenses (shelter costs)

Once your application has been approved, your local office will reach out to you to schedule an appointment with you and all adult members of your household to verify your information, sign additional documents and begin developing an Action Plans based on your needs and goals. It is important that you attend to ensure your financial assistance is not suspended or cancelled. ​

MyBenefits is an online service available to active Ontario Works applicants and recipients. It is available 24/7 and allows you to see important information about your benefits/applications and to report changes about your income, expenses and living arrangements as well as submit documents directly through your desktop, tablet or mobile phone. ​

For more information or to register, visit MyBenefits to create an account.

If you are unable to access MyBenefits, you may submit your information about income and expenses using the Statement of Income Form and the Change Report.