Ontario Works Payment Dates 2024

Many Canadians have a difficult time covering the cost of the necessities of life, including food and shelter. Fortunately, several government programs provide financial assistance to families who need it.

In Ontario, families in financial need may qualify for the Ontario Works program, which is designed to help struggling families cover the cost of food, shelter, and other costs of living.

Let’s go into more detail about the Ontario Works program, what you need to qualify, and what the payment dates are for 2024. 

What Is Ontario Works (OW)? 

Ontario Works is a social assistance program that provides emergency financial help to those who are unable to cover the cost of shelter, food, healthcare, and other costs needed to survive. More specifically, the program is designed to help those who are unable to work or cannot find work.

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What Can You Get Under the Ontario Works Program? 

The Ontario Works program offers assistance in covering the cost of living, finding a job, and some health benefits.

Financial Assistance 

Eligible participants of the Ontario Works program can receive financial assistance. A monthly income is provided temporarily to cover the cost of bill payments. The amount you receive depends on a few factors, including income, number of family members, and the current cost of necessities.

Employment Assistance

The Ontario Works program helps recipients find employment by providing training, guidance, workshops, and recruitment services. Those who wish to receive these benefits must participate in the program’s employment assistance activities that are designed to find a job.

Those who find employment may require assistance with childcare and specific employment-related expenses, which the program will also help cover.

Have trouble finding work? Check out these job boards 

Health Benefits

Ontario Works participants may also be eligible to receive financial coverage for health benefits, including the following:

• Prescription medication
• Dental care
• Eye exams 
• Diabetic supplies
• Medical transportation services
• Extended health benefits
• Service dogs
• Special diets

Don’t Live In Ontario? Check Out These Social Assistance Programs By Province

How Much Can You Get Under The Ontario Works Program?

The amount you can receive under the Ontario Works program can be broken down as follows:

Basic Needs 

Basic needs include things such as food, clothing, and personal items. As a single individual with no children, the maximum you can receive for this category and shelter is $733. If you have a child under 18, you can get additional support. The following chart outlines the maximum amounts you can receive for basic needs only, based on your family size:

Shelter

Shelter includes housing costs such as mortgage payments, rent, utilities, property taxes, and so forth. The following chart outlines the maximum amounts you can receive for shelter expenses, based on your family size and housing costs:

Ontario Works Payment Dates 2024

Payments for Ontario Works benefits are paid monthly and are typically deposited directly into your bank account. For 2024, the payment dates are as follows:

Do you know if you qualify for the Ontario Child Benefit?

Who’s Eligible For Ontario Works Social Assistance?

To qualify for Ontario Works benefits, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Be an Ontario resident
• Be in financial need
• Have no assets over the limits set out in the program
• Partake in employment activities (such as job training and education)

If you have a disability and require additional support, check out the ODSP.

How To Apply For Ontario Works 

Follow these steps to apply for the Ontario Works program:

Step 1 – Provide Your Personal Information 

You’ll need to fill in all personal information of all family members, such as the following: 

• Full names 
• Dates of birth 
• Address
• Email addresses (for those 18 years and over)
• Bank account information
• Status in Canada
• Total monthly income 
• Housing expenses
• Other relevant expenses (such as childcare)

Step 2 – Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed the application form, submit it. Ontario Works will then review your application and contact you within four business days after submission to schedule an appointment. 

Step 3 – Meet With Ontario Works 

At your appointment, you’ll be asked to verify and sign your application, which also includes a consent form that allows Ontario Works to access other information about you to make sure you’re eligible for financial assistance. If you do not qualify, you’ll have 30 days to request another review of your application from Ontario Works.

Step 4 – Receive Payment

You’ll be notified of approval and the amount you’re eligible to receive within four business days. You can then expect your first payment on the date provided to you by Ontario Works. 

Step 5 – Establish A Plan To Partake In Employment Activities

Ontario Works will get in touch with you to schedule an appointment to come up with a plan for you to get involved in employment activities.

Additional Reading

Are You Eligible For The Ontario Child Benefit (OCB)?

How To Qualify For Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)

Ontario Minimum Wage 2024

Final Thoughts

Governments of all levels in Canada provide various support programs to help families who need financial assistance. In Ontario, the Ontario Works program is one of a few options families may consider to help them financially cover the basic costs of living.

Ontario Works FAQs