Income Security

This page contains information about government programs that may provide financial assistance (money) or benefits for you, your family and your children.  You can also visit our  Employment Law  page to find out about other employment-related benefits.

  • Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)

    The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is social assistance from the government of Ontario to eligible people with disabilities and their families. For ODSP, “family” includes spouse/partner, dependent children and dependent adult children. ODSP benefits include money for basic needs, shelter costs, Special Diet Allowance, diabetic and other medical supplies, travel costs for medical care, work-related expenses, etc. ODSP benefits include Ontario Drug Benefit program coverage for prescription medications and dental care for everyone except dependent adults. Continue reading →

  • Ontario Works (OW)

    Ontario Works (OW) is often referred to as “welfare” and is for people who have no or very limited income or assets. Continue reading →

  • Employment Insurance (EI)

    Employment Insurance (EI) is a government insurance plan for workers, which used to be called Unemployment Insurance (UI). Most workers pay into EI from their income, and employers also pay into EI on behalf of their employees. Continue reading →

  • Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)

    If you are injured at work, you may be eligible for benefits from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). WSIB is often called “Workers Compensation” and covers many but not all workers in Ontario. Continue reading →

  • Canada Pension Plan (CPP)

    The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a benefits plan available for many people who have worked in Canada. Workers who pay into the Canada Pension Plan from their income are called CPP contributors. Continue reading →

  • Old Age Security (OAS) & other benefits

    There are several different benefits available from the Government of Canada and the Ontario government for senior citizens and older adults. Continue reading →

  • Other Government Benefits and Programs

    You may be eligible for Tax Credits, Benefits and Incentives (see below). If you have children, you and/or your children may be eligible for Child Benefits (see below). Continue reading →