provincial · Ontario
Ontario Works
Ontario Works (OW) provides monthly income assistance (cash support) to people in Ontario who are in temporary financial need and do not qualify for ODSP. A single person receives up to $733/month. Rates have been frozen since 2018. In most cases, you must take part in employment activities.
- Verified Aug 22, 2026
- provincial program · Ontario
At a glance
- Worth:
- $733/mo single
- Who:
- You live in Ontario, are 18 or older, and are in financial need.
- Apply:
- Official program page
What it could be worth
Amount
$733/mo single
- Single person: up to $733/month (basic needs $343 plus shelter up to $390).
- Couple: up to $1,136/month. Single parent with one child: $1,002 plus the Ontario Child Benefit (about $146.66/month per child in 2026–27).
- Asset limits (the most you can have in savings and property): $10,000 for a single applicant and $15,000 for a couple, plus $500 for each additional dependant.
- Rates have been frozen at 2018 levels. In 2026, this is the eighth year in a row.
Example: A single applicant paying $390 or more in shelter costs receives the full $733. Someone paying $250 in rent receives $343 plus $250. That is $593. Families with children also receive the Ontario Child Benefit on top. A single parent with one child reaches about $1,149/month combined.
How it benefits you
- Monthly payments for basic needs (food, clothing, and personal items) and shelter (rent and utilities, up to a maximum based on your family size).
- Health benefits come with it. You get Ontario Drug Benefit drug coverage, plus dental and vision programs for children in your family.
- Employment supports are built in. Your caseworker helps you create a participation agreement — a plan for job search, work, or training.
- If you are later found to have a disability, ODSP pays much more. OW caseworkers can help you make that change.
What you need to qualify or apply
Eligibility
- You live in Ontario, are 18 or older, and are in financial need.
- Your assets are within OW limits ($10,000 for a single person, $15,000 for a couple), and you have used up other income sources.
- You do not qualify for ODSP. If you may have a disability, apply there first, because ODSP pays about twice as much.
- In general, you take part in employment-support activities that you and your caseworker agree on.
How to apply
- Apply online or contact your local Ontario Works office. The Social Assistance Support Line (1-888-999-1142) can point you to the right office.
- Meet with a caseworker to confirm your identity, income, assets, and housing costs.
- Agree on a participation agreement (a plan for job search, training, or other activities).
- Monthly payments start once you are approved. Report income changes in MyBenefits.
Documents you may need
- Documents that show your identity and where you live.
- Income statements, bank balances, and proof of rent, mortgage, or other housing costs.
- Information about the people in your household and any dependants.
Read more from the official source
Checked ontario.ca — Financial assistance from Ontario Works · Sep 13, 2026
Amounts and rules can change — always confirm on the official source before applying.
This page is general information, not a CRA or provincial determination — amounts and rules can change. Not sure where you stand? The free benefits check walks you through it, or a Registered Social Worker can review your full situation.