Closed
Source verified July 23, 2026
Ontario Works
Financial help for basic needs and shelter
Latest source updateLast Update: July 20, 2026Latest change: The Ontario Works application landing page now shows live apply, continue, status-check, and local office options with new prep guidance and support links.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: July 20, 2026
Latest change: The Ontario Works application landing page now shows live apply, continue, status-check, and local office options with new prep guidance and support links.
Ontario Works application page updated
The Ontario Works application landing page has changed from a maintenance notice to a live intake page. It now shows how to start a new application, continue in MyBenefits, check application status, find a local social assistance office, and review preparation steps and required identification and tax documents. The updated guidance also expands who can use the simple application path, including people applying for Ontario Works or ODSP and some recent Ontario Works recipients who may be able to re-apply more simply. It also adds visible support and related service links that were not previously available on the page.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Closed
Location
Ontario, Canada
Who can apply
Residents of Ontario who are 18 years of age or older and have status in Canada.
See full eligibility
Overview
Ontario Works is a province-wide program for Ontario residents in temporary financial need. It provides financial assistance and employment supports to help people meet basic needs and shelter costs while working toward self-sufficiency; benefits can include food, housing, dental care and job search support.
Find open grants for your business
Explore open funding programs that match your business and project.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Enhance an existing program
- Improve governance or administrative structure
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Employment assistance activities that help people find and maintain employment
Documents Needed
- All required forms completed and signed, and if required, witnessed and/or commissioned
Official resources
Program guide
Application form
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Residents of Ontario who are 18 years of age or older and have status in Canada.
- Applicants who are 16 or 17 years of age under special circumstances only.
Eligible expenses
- Basic needs and shelter expenses
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Travel for purposes other than approved medical travel on the medical mileage reimbursement form
How to apply
- Apply online or by telephone.
Processing and Agreement
- An applicant or recipient can request an internal review of any decision.
- The request must be made in writing within 30 calendar days after receipt of the decision.
- The office will complete the internal review within 10 days of the request and notify the result.
- If you disagree with the internal review, you can appeal to the Social Benefits Tribunal within 30 days of the internal review decision.
- You cannot file the appeal unless you have asked for an internal review.
Additional information
- Ontario Works is a province-wide program delivered at the local level.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ontario Works Program
What is the Ontario Works?
Ontario Works is a province-wide program for Ontario residents in temporary financial need. It provides financial assistance and employment supports to help people meet basic needs and shelter costs while working toward self-sufficiency; benefits can include food, housing, dental care and job search support.
Who is eligible for the Ontario Works program?
To be eligible for the Ontario Works program, you must:
Applicants must be residents of Ontario, 18 years of age or older, and have status in Canada
Applicants who are 16 or 17 years of age may be eligible under special circumstances only
Participants must participate in employment assistance activities as a condition of eligibility
What expenses are eligible under Ontario Works?
Employment assistance activities that help people find and maintain employment
Who can I contact for more information about the Ontario Works?
You can contact United Counties of Leeds and Grenville (UCLG) by email at ontarioworks@hamilton.ca or by phone at 1-855-999-8729.
Where is the Ontario Works available?
The Ontario Works program is available the province of Ontario.
Who are the financial supporters of the Ontario Works?
Ontario Works is funded by United Counties of Leeds and Grenville (UCLG)