How To Apply
Residents of Renfrew County can now apply for Ontario Works in one of two ways: online or by telephone.
ONLINE APPLICATIONS
Applications for Ontario Works can be made online from any computer with Internet access 24 hours per day, 7 days per week at www.ontario.ca/socialassistance . After completing the online application, you will be contacted by your local Ontario Works office to schedule an in-person meeting to verify the information you provided online. On the day of your interview, you will be required to attend an Ontario Works Information Session to learn more about Ontario Works program requirements, employment supports and benefits. After the Ontario Works Information Session you will attend an Intake Verification Interview where you will meet with an Ontario Works Agent who will verify the information you provided in your telephone application. The Ontario Works Agent will also assist you with creating an action plan to help you enter or return to the workforce.
TELEPHONE APPLICATIONS
Applying for Ontario Works benefits is now a simplified process which can be done over the telephone in the privacy of your own home. The first step is to call 613-732-2601 and choose option #3 or call 1-866-897-4849 if you are calling long distance. You will speak with a trained intake screener in order to fill out an application. Once you have completed the telephone application, you will be scheduled to attend an Ontario Works Information Session at the local office where you will learn about the Ontario Works Program requirements, employment supports and benefits. After the Ontario Works Information Session you will attend an Intake Verification Interview where you will meet with an Ontario Works Agent who will verify the information you provided in your telephone application. The Ontario Works Agent will also assist you with creating an action plan to help you enter or return to the workforce.
To apply for Ontario Works benefits please have the following information ready for yourself and all family members to complete the application:
• Birth Certificates
• Social Insurance Numbers
• Health Card Numbers
• Immigration number and date of landing (if appropriate)
• Cost of accommodations including taxes, mortgage, rent, heat, hydro, water and fire insurance
• Address history for the last 12 months
• Employment information for at least the last 12 months
• Bank account information
• Any debts or loans over $500
• Information on earnings or income, such as Child Tax Credit
Interactive Voice Response is a new initiative that will provide you with a toll-free, fast and easy access to some of your personal case file information and general announcements about Ontario Works. You can use the IVR system during and after regular business hours. You will need to use a touch tone telephone. Calling the IVR line will mean you won't need to call your worker to get certain information any more, unless you so wish to. To ensure private access to the IVR and your personal case file information, you will need to use your 9 digit identification number as well as a 4 digit personal identification number. To contact the IVR line, please call 1-800-808-2268.