Are you unable to make ends meet? Are you curious about Ontario Works (OW) and how it helps those in need? Do you need guidance on applying for OW? Read on for information on OW.
OW is a financial and employment assistance program commonly known as welfare. It is available to residents of Ontario that are at least 16 years old and meet the financial requirements.
OW may provide a monthly payment, coverage for prescription drugs, dental and vision care, as well as assistance with other health costs. The amount of the payment and receipt of benefits will depend on the applicant’s specific circumstances.
For those who qualify, participation in skill developing and job searching activities is required if they are able to do so.
If you apply for OW your application will be assessed for eligibility. Your family size, income, assets, living expenses, and housing costs will all be considered.
Income includes money from employment, Canada Pension Plan, Employment Insurance, Old Age Security, Ontario Student Assistance Program and spousal support.
Assets include money in bank accounts, Registered Retirement Savings Plans, vehicles, property, and other assets an applicant or their family own.
There are limits to the amount of assets you can have. A single person can have up to $10,000 in assets, and a couple can have up to $15,000. An additional $500 is allowed for each dependent. Some assets are exempt, which means they do not affect eligibility – examples include your primary residence, primary vehicle, and household items.
You are allowed to earn income from employment while receiving OW. However, you are responsible for providing your caseworker with any updated information regarding your income, assets, and living situation.
You can earn up to $200 a month without having your OW benefits reduced. For each additional $1 that you earn, $0.50 will be deducted from your benefit.
If you no longer qualify for financial assistance from OW due to your income, you may still qualify to receive help with health-care costs.
If you are approved for OW, you will be assigned a caseworker and referred to community resources that could include job searching workshops, job counselling, educational programs and language skills, as well as access to computers and the internet.
If you disagree with a decision made by the OW office, such as a denial of your application, suspension of your benefits, or request for repayment, you have 30 days to request an Internal Review at your local OW office.
If you do not agree with the decision from the Internal Review, you have 30 days to appeal the decision to the Social Benefits Tribunal.
To apply for OW, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-works or contact your local office directly.
If you disagree with a decision made by OW, contact the Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic for assistance.
• Melinda Katzman, CKLC Staff Lawyer (www.cklc.ca, 519-351-6771)
