How much does Ontario Works pay?

Ontario Works pays up to $733 per month for a single person ($390 basic needs + $343 shelter). Couples receive up to $1,125, and additional amounts are provided for dependent children.

Who qualifies for Ontario Works?

Ontario Works is for Ontario residents 18+ who are in financial need (limited income and assets under $10,000 for singles), are willing to participate in employment activities, and are not receiving other social assistance like ODSP.

How quickly can I get Ontario Works?

Emergency financial assistance may be available same-day. Regular OW applications are typically processed within 4-6 weeks. Apply online or call your local Ontario Works office.

Ontario Works: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply (2026)

Ontario Works at a Glance

Feature	Details
Maximum monthly (single)	$733
Basic needs	$390
Shelter (max)	$343
Asset limit (single)	$10,000
Asset limit (couple)	$15,000
Administered by	Municipal social services

Monthly Payment Rates (2026)

Family Size	Basic Needs	Max Shelter	Max Total
Single	$390	$343	$733
Couple	$622	$503	$1,125
Single + 1 child	$390	$503	$893
Single + 2 children	$390	$562	$952
Couple + 1 child	$622	$663	$1,285

Eligibility Requirements

Requirement	Details
Age	18+ (16-17 in special circumstances)
Residence	Living in Ontario
Financial need	Income and assets below limits
Employment readiness	Willing to look for work or participate in activities
Not on other assistance	Not receiving ODSP, EI, or other conflicting benefits

Asset Limits

Asset	Treatment
Cash and savings	Counts toward $10,000 limit
Primary residence	Exempt
One vehicle	Exempt (up to $20,000 value)
RRSP	Counts (consider withdrawal implications)
TFSA	Counts toward limit
RDSP	Exempt

How to Apply

Step 1: Gather Documents

ID (driver’s license, health card, passport)
Proof of address (lease, utility bills)
Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return)
Bank statements
Rent receipts

Step 2: Apply

Online: ontario.ca/socialassistance
Phone: Call your local social services office
In person: Visit local Ontario Works office

Step 3: Eligibility Interview

An OW worker will review your situation and verify your information.

Step 4: Participation Agreement

You’ll agree to participate in employment-related activities.

Benefits Included

Benefit	Coverage
Basic needs	Food, clothing, personal items
Shelter	Rent or mortgage payments
Drug coverage	Emergency prescription coverage
Dental (emergency)	Limited emergency coverage
Vision	Basic coverage
Community start-up	Help with deposits, moving costs (one-time)

Employment Participation

Activity	Required?
Job search	✅ Yes
Skills training	✅ If assigned
Volunteering	May be assigned
Attending appointments	✅ Yes

Exemptions may apply if you have a medical condition, are caring for children, or have other barriers.

Working While on OW

Earnings	Treatment
First $200/month	Exempt
Earnings above $200	50% clawed back

Goal: OW is designed to help you transition to employment, not as long-term support.

OW vs ODSP

Feature	Ontario Works	ODSP
Monthly (single)	$733	$1,308
Asset limit	$10,000	$40,000
For	Temporary financial need	People with disabilities
Work requirement	Yes	Employment supports optional
Duration	Short-term	Long-term

If you have a disability, you may apply for ODSP while receiving OW.