#FinancialFridays: Social Assistance Rates
I have met with a few people lately who had no income and didn’t know they may be eligible for social assistance. Social assistance incomes, like Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program, are available to help people cover basic costs. Today, I am going to talk about Ontario Works.
An adult who is not able to get work or is in between jobs and has used up all their available Employment Insurance (EI) can apply for Ontario Works funding. If they are single, they will get a maximum of $733 each month they are receiving Ontario Works. That is a basic needs allowance of $343 plus a maximum shelter allowance of $390. If their housing expenses are more than $390, they will not receive more. If their housing expenses are less than $390, they will receive less. The rates depend on the number of people in the household, the household income, and some other criteria.
$733 is not enough to cover basic expenses. With bedroom rentals costing between $500-$900 each month, people are not able to cover their rent, let alone food, communication, and medical needs. Trying to find a job is very difficult when you are busy trying to cover your daily living needs with such a low amount of social assistance income. We fully acknowledge this isn’t enough. And, for those with no income, this is a small amount to help you get through.
While receiving Ontario Works, you may be able to use the Ontario Drug Benefit to cover many prescription medications. Your Ontario Works Caseworker will also connect you to employment programs.
If you would like to apply for Ontario Works, there is a central intake online. If you have issues with that, reach out to your local Ontario Works Office. Bruce County and Grey County administer Ontario Works.
https://www.brucecounty.on.ca/income-and-employment-supports
https://www.grey.ca/resident-services/community-services/ontario-works
Thank you to the Income Security Advocacy Centre, for sharing this chart and explanation document about Ontario Works, the Ontario Disability Support Program, and Ontario Child Benefits. It is easy to read and shows exact amounts for different scenarios.
