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What is the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and how do I apply?
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is part of the provincial social assistance program; sometimes, it is called disability benefits. It provides financial and employment assistance to adults with disabilities and their families.
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) includes income and employment support and health benefits.
You must meet eligibility requirements requirements before you can qualify for ODSP.
You must:
- Be at least 18
- Be an Ontario resident
- Be in financial need with no large assets
- Meet the ODSP definition of a person with a disability or be a member of a prescribed class
Income Support
Income support is a monthly payment based on your situation. It includes assistance with your basic needs and shelter allowance. It is adjusted every year based on your situation and the cost of living.
Basic Needs
This part of the payment helps you cover things like:
- Food
- Clothing
- Other necessary personal items
Shelter Allowance
This part of the payment helps you pay for housing-related costs:
- Your rent or your mortgage payment
- Heat
- Utilities (hydro, water)
- Property taxes
- Home insurance or other eligible fees
If you live in Northern Ontario, you may receive an additional amount called the Remote Communities Allowance.
Employment Support
Employment supports are available through ODSP. They help you prepare for a job and find a job. Depending on your situation, you may get:
- Help to find a job that is right for you and to keep it
- Job Coaching
- On-the-job supports
- Help to move to the next level in your career
- Adaptative technology that can help you do your job
- Job accommodations and support
- Interpreter or intervenor services
- Assistive devices and training
- Coverage for childcare costs
You may also be eligible to get help to start your own business.
Health Benefits
The ODSP health benefits cover a variety of things, including:
- Prescription drug coverage
- Dental coverage
- Vision coverage and glasses
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Nutritional Allowance
- Special Diet Allowance
- Coverage for assistive devices
- Batteries and repairs for mobility devices
- Guide Dog Benefit
- Extended Health Benefit
- Special Necessities Benefit
- Transportation for medical appointments and treatments
- Diabetic supplies
- Surgical supplies and dressings
- Incontinence supplies
How do I apply for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)?
You can apply for ODSP:
Before you start your online application, you will need to collect documents for yourself and your family members like:
- Social Insurance Numbers (SIN)
- Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) cards
- Birth Certificates for anyone born in Canada
- Immigration documents like PR or Citizenship
- Notice of Assessment (income tax returns)
- Banking Information
Your Rights
You have several rights when you apply for ODSP benefits. You have the right to:
- An Interview - You can bring someone with you to meet your caseworker
- A Decision in Writing - You will receive a letter explaining the decision about your application and the reasons for making it.
- An Appeal - If you disagree with the decision, you can ask for a review.
Your Responsibilities
When you apply for and receive ODSP, you and any adult family members have responsibilities.
You must:
- Attend interviews
- Show proof of income and expenses
- Declare all types of income you and your family receive
- Disclose all your assets
- Report changes in your life
Emergency Assistance
If you are in an emergency and live in Ontario, you might be eligible for emergency assistance, which provides temporary support.
Many community agencies can help you find programs and services. To find help in your area, go to Services Near Me.
For More Information
- About the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) - Official information about the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). From the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
- Income Support - Information about the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) income supports. From the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
- Employment Support - Information about the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) employment supports. From the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
- Social Assistance Law - Clear language information about social assistance laws. From CLEO (Community Legal Education Ontario).
- Benefits Wayfinder - This bilingual one-stop portal lets you search for federal, provincial, and territorial benefits. From Prosper Canada.
Last updated:
January 9, 2025
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