Ontario Works

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Canada Post strike update - mail delivery for Ontario Works clients

 Canada Post services resumed on Tuesday, December 17. Ontario Works payments will not be mailed out and must be picked up in person.

For Clients

Ontario Works clients who would normally receive their cheques by mail must pick-up up their cheques at their regular Employment and Social Service Centre.

Daily cheques

Daily cheques are available for pick-up. Photo identification is required for verification. Starting January 6, 2025, all cheques will be mailed. Canada Post states that there may be delays in delivery.

Monthly cheques

January monthly cheques will be ready for pick-up starting Tuesday, December 31. Photo identification is required for verification.

Regular service will resume in February and all monthly cheques will be mailed.

Sign up for Direct Bank Deposit or a Reloadable Payment Card

Are you receiving your Ontario Works payments by cheque? Now is a good time to talk to your case worker about signing up for Direct Bank Deposit or obtaining a Reloadable Payment Card to receive payments in a secure and reliable way.

Do you have a Reloadable Payment Card but lost it? Visit your regular Employment and Social Service Centre to request a replacement.

Landlords and Third-party payees

Daily cheques

Landlords and other third-party payees will be contacted to let them know where they can pick up their payments.

Monthly cheques

January monthly cheques will be ready for pick-up starting Monday, December 30 at 100 Constellation Dr, 2nd Floor from 9 am to 4 pm. Photo identification and manager/contact person’s information is required for verification. If your tenant is picking up a payment on your behalf, written permission is required.

Apply for Ontario Works

If you don’t have enough money for food and housing, or are in financial need, you can apply for financial assistance through Ontario Works.  Learn more about the Ontario Works program.

The Ontario Works Act and regulations set the social assistance rates. How much money you could receive depends on your family size, housing costs and income. Refer to the Ontario Works rates for basic needs and shelter.