Ontario Works

Submit an initial application

If you live in Renfrew County, there are two ways to start an application for Ontario Works:

• Apply online (available 24 hours/7 days/week)
• By phone: 1-888-999-1142 (available Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm) 

The purpose of the initial application is to collect information to determine if you might qualify for financial assistance. You will be asked questions about:

• Who is to be included within your application (examples: self, spouse, children)
• Assets (examples: bank accounts, vehicles, property, investments)
• Income (examples: earnings, Employment Insurance Benefits, insurance payments)
• Living Arrangements (your address and expenses such as rent, hydro, heat)

Once your application has been submitted you will receive a confirmation number.  You will be contacted by phone or email within 4 business days and may be asked to provide additional information and/or to send in documents.

If you are in an emergency situation that is temporary in nature (eg. fire, flood, safety concerns), you may be eligible for Emergency Assistance. You cannot receive Emergency Assistance and Ontario Works at the same time. Apply for Emergency Assistance online.

Required documents

The following information is required for yourself and family members who are included in your application:

• Verification of Date of Birth (examples: Passport, Birth Certificate, Driver's License)
• Ontario Health Card
• Social Insurance Number

Additional information may be requested to verify your address, income, and assets. Examples include:

• A lease or letter from your landlord to verify your address and rent amount
• A mortgage statement if you own your home
• Most recent utility bills (water, heat, hydro)
• Tenant or homeowner's insurance
• Pay stubs for the current and previous month
• Record of Employment
• Employment Insurance Benefit Statement
• Bank Statement(s) for the last 30 days
• Vehicle ownership(s)

Please note that information is requested depending on your unique financial and housing circumstances.

Eligibility decision

The amount of assistance issued is set by the Province of Ontario. It is based on how many people are included in your application and any other income that you (and your family) are receiving. If you do not qualify for Ontario Works, we will try to provide you with information to help you with your circumstances.