2. Gather the information you need
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.
Question & Answer
What happens at my application meeting with OW?You have to give information about yourself and anyone else in your , such as:
- name and date of birth
- immigration status
You also have to give:
- your address
- your housing costs and what type of housing you live in, for example, whether you live in a place that you rent or own
- information about other costs, for example, child care or costs that are related to a disability
Documents to prove the information
When you meet with an Ontario Works (OW) worker to complete your application, you need to bring documents to prove the information you give them is correct.
Make sure to keep copies of any documents that you give to the OW worker. You can ask the worker to give you a list to prove what documents you gave them. You can also ask the worker to make copies of any documents that you bring to the appointment.
The types of documents OW can ask for are listed below.
Personal identification documents
This includes:
- birth certificates or passports
- health cards
- Indian status cards
- immigration documents
Legal documents
This includes:
- separation or divorce papers
- custody documents
- support orders
Proof of income and assets
This includes:
- bank statements or bank records
- proof of income from any source, including employment, support payments, workers' compensation, Employment Insurance, and payments from tenants, roomers, and boarders
- the notice of assessment that you get from the after you send in your income tax return
- information about assets, including registered retirement savings plan (RRSP) statements, car ownership papers, life insurance policies, and bonds
Proof of work and education
This includes:
- pay stubs, Record of Employment, letter of termination
- documents that prove you or someone in your household is going to school
Proof of debts
This includes:
- credit card bills or cash advances from your credit card
- student loans, such as loans from the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
- other loans, even if the loan is from a relative or friend
Documents related to housing
This includes:
- rent receipts and leases or tenancy agreements
- mortgage agreements and statements
- other bills related to housing costs, such as bills for hydro, water, gas, property tax, and home or apartment insurance
