Information for Adult Family Members
without Disabilities on the Ontario Disability Support Program
Adults on the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) who do not have a disability are required to participate in Ontario Works employment assistance activities.
Exceptions
The ODSP worker will work with you to determine whether or not you should be referred to Ontario Works.
You may not be required to participate under certain circumstances such as illness, injury or caregiving responsibilities, or if you are already working or involved in an employment-related activity (e.g., an employment training program).
You will be asked for information about your circumstances, as well as verification from a doctor or personal care worker.
Employment Planning
If you are referred to Ontario Works, an Ontario Works caseworker will work with you to develop a plan that includes activities to help you prepare for and find a job. This is called a Participation Agreement.
Everyone’s plan is different. You negotiate your plan with the caseworker. Any restrictions you may have on the hours you can work or the type of work you can do should be discussed and will be considered.
You will be required to participate in the activities outlined in your Participation Agreement in order to remain eligible for ODSP Income Support.
Ontario Works Employment Services
Ontario Works employment services can help you prepare for and find a job - even if you have never worked before or have been out of work for some time.
If you are already working or involved in an employment-related activity, you can also get help to keep your job and advance your career.
Depending on your interests and needs, Ontario Works employment services can:
- Place you in a paid job
- Provide training
- Work with you and your employer to make sure your job is a good fit
- Help resolve problems you may have with your employer or co-workers
- Help you to become self-employed.
Will having a job affect my family’s income support?
Having a paying job will increase your family’s income. For each month you are employed and reporting earnings:
- For each $1.00 in net earnings you make, the ODSP will deduct 50% from your family’s income support cheque. For example, if your net monthly earnings are $600, the ODSP will deduct $300 from your ODSP Income Support cheque.
- Note: there are no longer any flat rate exemptions on earnings (i.e. $160 for singles or $235 for families)
- You can claim some of your work costs without reducing the amount of income support your family receives, including the full cost of licensed child care or up to $600 each month for each child in unlicensed care
- You can receive a $100 Work-Related Benefit to help you with costs such as transportation or work clothing.
Between your earnings, your family’s income support and the Work-Related Benefit, your family will have more money when you are working than from income support alone.
Your ODSP worker can provide you with more information on available benefits, deductions and how to report your earnings.
Can I get help with my costs when I start a job?
If you are looking for a job, starting a new job or participating in an employment-related activity, you may be eligible for ODSP benefits such as:
- Up to $500 to help pay for things like work uniforms, equipment, and professional fees
- Financial help to cover your child care costs if you must pay for them in advance.
Need More Information?
For more information, please contact your worker through your local ODSP office.
For general inquiries, please contact:
Ministry of Community and Social Services
Telephone: 1-888-789-4199
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-800-387-5559
www.mcss.gov.on.ca
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