If you have lost your income or cannot cover food and rent, knowing how to apply for Ontario Works can help you get support sooner. Ontario Works is the Ontario government’s social assistance program for people in financial need.
At Friendship House in Brantford, we meet many neighbours who are going through a hard stretch. We do not run Ontario Works, but we want you to know how the process works, and where to get a free meal and groceries while you wait.
Quick answer
How do I apply for Ontario Works?
Apply online through the Ontario government’s MyBenefits application, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes, or call the Social Assistance Support Line at 1-888-999-1142 (TTY 1-800-387-5559). You can also contact your local Ontario Works office. Have social insurance numbers, health cards, ID, immigration papers, tax returns and banking information ready for everyone in your household.
What Ontario Works provides
According to the Ontario Works page on Ontario.ca (opens in a new tab), the program gives money to help you and eligible family members with living costs such as food and rent. It also includes health benefits for you and your eligible family members.
Ontario Works also offers help finding a job. In most cases, you need to take part in employment activities, like training or job searching, to receive financial help. Your local office works out an employment plan with you, unless something like illness or caregiving stops you from taking part.
Who can apply
You may qualify if you need help paying for food and housing and are in financial need. Your income, savings and other assets are reviewed as part of your application.
One application covers you and the immediate family members who live with you. Make sure they are with you when you apply, because they need to give consent and confirm their information.
Step 1: Gather your documents
Having your papers ready makes the application faster. Ontario.ca suggests gathering these for everyone in your household.
- Social insurance numbers, if you have them
- Ontario health cards (OHIP)
- Birth certificates
- Immigration papers, if they apply
- Tax returns
- Banking information
After you apply, you may be asked for more proof, such as your income, shelter costs, Ontario residency and bank statements. Some applicants are asked for at least one month of statements, and sometimes up to 12 months.
Step 2: Choose how to apply
There are three ways to apply. Pick the one that suits you best.
| Way to apply | How | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Online | MyBenefits application on Ontario.ca | About 20 to 30 minutes |
| By phone | Social Assistance Support Line, 1-888-999-1142 (TTY 1-800-387-5559) | Toll-free |
| Local office | Contact your local Ontario Works office | In person or by phone |
Applying online is often the fastest way to start, and you can open a MyBenefits account to follow your application. If you do not have internet at home, you can apply by phone instead.
Step 3: Complete the application
Take your time and answer every question honestly. Double-check your contact details so the office can reach you.
- Keep your application number somewhere safe.
- Write down the date you applied.
- Keep copies or photos of every document you send.
- Answer calls and letters quickly, so your file is not delayed.
Step 4: What happens next
A caseworker or the Social Assistance Intake Unit reviews your application and may ask you for more information. Ontario.ca says you will be told the decision within four business days after they have all the information they need.
Decisions are sent by mail. If you sign up for MyBenefits, you can see your letter online sooner. You can check the status of an online application with your application number, through MyBenefits, or by calling 1-888-999-1142, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tips for a smoother application
A little preparation can save you days of back and forth. These habits help your file move along.
- Set aside a quiet half hour, with your documents and your family members nearby.
- Use an email address and phone number you check every day.
- If you do not have a computer, ask a friend or family member to help, or apply by phone.
- Tell the office right away if your address, phone number or income changes.
- Write down the name of anyone you speak with, and the date.
If you are missing a document, do not wait to apply. Explain what you have and what you are still getting, and ask what the office needs from you.
If you are told you do not qualify
If you are found not eligible because of your finances, Ontario.ca says you have 30 days to ask for the decision to be looked at again. For some decisions you can ask for an internal review and may be able to appeal to the Social Benefits Tribunal.
Read the decision letter carefully, because it explains your options and the deadlines. If you are unsure, a community legal clinic or 211 Ontario (opens in a new tab) can point you to free help.
Get food help while you wait
Waiting for a decision is stressful, especially when the fridge is empty. You do not need to wait for Ontario Works to get help at Friendship House, 452 Grey Street.
- Coffee, tea and a light breakfast from 8 a.m.
- A hot meal Monday to Thursday, 10 to 11 a.m., and lunch after Church at the Table on Fridays
- The Food Bank on Wednesdays (opens in a new tab), with tickets from 8:30 a.m.; bring ID and proof of address for everyone in your household
- The Clothing Closet (opens in a new tab), Tuesday to Thursday, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Everything is free and open to everyone. Our guides on what to do after losing your job (opens in a new tab) and how to deal with financial stress (opens in a new tab) have more ideas for getting through a hard month.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Ontario Works application take?
Ontario.ca says the online application takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You will be told the decision within four business days after all the needed information is received.
What is the phone number to apply for Ontario Works?
Call the Social Assistance Support Line at 1-888-999-1142, or TTY 1-800-387-5559. You can also contact your local Ontario Works office.
What documents do I need for Ontario Works?
Have social insurance numbers, OHIP cards, birth certificates, immigration papers, tax returns and banking information ready for everyone in your household. You may be asked for bank statements and proof of income and rent.
Do I have to look for work on Ontario Works?
In most cases, yes. You take part in employment activities set out in a plan with your local office, unless illness, caregiving or another reason prevents it.
Where can I get free food in Brantford while I wait?
Friendship House at 452 Grey Street serves free breakfast and hot meals, and runs a Food Bank on Wednesdays. Everything is free and open to everyone.
Applying for help takes courage, and it is the right step when money runs out. Program details can change, so check Ontario.ca for the latest information, and visit our free services at Friendship House (opens in a new tab) for a warm meal in the meantime.
