3. Make an appointment to complete the application

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.

If you call Ontario Works (OW) to apply, they will:

  • ask you some questions on the phone, and
  • give you an appointment time to come in to the OW office to complete your application.

If you apply online, the information you enter goes to your local OW office. Within 3 business days, a worker from that office is supposed to phone you to set up an appointment to complete the application.

If the online application says you're not eligible, contact your local office to find out if this is correct.

If you apply online but don't have a phone number, call your local OW office to make the appointment.

What happens at the appointment

At the appointment, an OW worker asks you questions and asks for information to show that you qualify for assistance.

Make sure to bring all the documents that you’ll need.

Changing the meeting place

The interview is usually at the local OW office.

If getting to the local OW office is hard for you, ask to have the interview at your home or somewhere that's better for you.

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