How do I apply to Ontario Works?
Beware of scams
People have been getting phone calls with a pre-recorded message telling them their Ontario Works account has been deleted.
This is a scam to trick you into sharing your personal information. If you get a call like that, hang up the phone. You can report these calls to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
You can apply for Ontario Works (OW):
- by phone: 1-888-999-1142 or 1-800-387-5559 for TTY, or
- online at ontario.ca/socialassistance
You can also apply in-person if you are
- applying for emergency assistance, or
- are under 18, or
- applying for a child under 18 that is temporarily in your care, or
- someone without immigration status
You may also be able apply in-person if you need an interpreter or need other help. Contact your local OW office to find out more.
After you start your application, the next thing you do is meet with an OW worker.
When you apply, you have to:
- give personal and financial information about yourself, each member of your family, and anyone else who lives with you
- give OW documents that relate to yourself and other people in your household
- sign forms that the OW worker fills out with you
If OW does not want to take your application
The law says that OW must take your application. And they must do this even if they say that you will not qualify for .
If you're talking to an OW worker on the phone and they don't want to give you an appointment to complete your application, ask to speak to a supervisor. Tell the supervisor that you want to complete your application.
If there's still a problem, contact your community legal clinic right away.
