Open
Source verified September 18, 2026
Ontario Works
Financial help for basic needs and shelter
Latest source updateLast Update: October 10, 2026Latest change: The Ontario Works social assistance page now sends applicants to updated links for starting an application, signing in to MyBenefits, and checking online application status.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: October 10, 2026
Latest change: The Ontario Works social assistance page now sends applicants to updated links for starting an application, signing in to MyBenefits, and checking online application status.
Ontario Works application links updated
The Ontario Works social assistance page updated the application-related links: Start a new application now goes to a different portal, Sign in to MyBenefits now uses ontario.ca/MyBenefits, and the online application status checker now uses ontario.ca/SocialAssistanceStatus. These changes affect how applicants begin, continue, and track an Ontario Works application.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Ontario, Canada
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.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
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
Availability timeline
2026
Periods: 1
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
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Residents of Ontario
- Applicants who are 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
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
- Start a new application.
- Apply online or by telephone.
Processing and Agreement
- An applicant or recipient can request an internal review of any decision.
- You may make a written request for an internal review within 30 calendar days after receipt of the decision.
- The office will complete the internal review within 10 days of the request and notify you of the result.
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.
What is the deadline to apply?
The program is accepting continuous intake
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 1-888-999-1142.
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)