Apply for Ontario Works
If you have little or no income, you may be eligible for support through Ontario Works.
Ontario Works provides financial assistance and many other benefits that can help you.
Types of assistance
Emergency Assistance is available for people who are in a crisis or who have experienced an emergency, such as a flood or a fire, or who are concerned for their safety.
Ontario Works provides temporary assistance for individuals with financial need, including support for expenses such as basic needs and shelter, along with other benefits.
Temporary Care Assistance is available for temporary caregivers of children who are under the age of 18 who are not residing with their parents.
Youth 16 or 17 years of age, not living with their parent(s), who require financial assistance, may qualify to receive Ontario Works.
How to apply
- By phone: 1-800-354-7051 ext 2001
- In person: 555 Courthouse Road, Cobourg
How to apply for Ontario Works financial assistance
If you live in Northumberland County, there are two ways you can apply for Ontario Works supports:
- Apply for Ontario Works in English or apply for Ontario Works in French
- Call the provincial Intake and Benefits Administration Unit to complete your application by phone. This service is available 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday by calling 1-888-999-1142. This process takes approximately one hour to complete.
If you do not have access to a computer or a phone, please visit the Northumberland County’s Community & Social Services office at 555 Courthouse Road in Cobourg.
How to apply: Applicants 16 and 17 years of age
Applicants ages 16 and 17 can apply for Emergency Assistance, Temporary Care Assistance and Assistance:
- By phone: 1-800-354-7051 ext 2001
- In person: 555 Courthouse Road, Cobourg
Before you apply
As part of completing your application, you will need to submit some or all of the following documentation to help determine your eligibility for Ontario Works supports. Please have the following items ready:
- Birth certificate(s)
- Social Insurance Number(s)
- Health Card number(s)
- Immigration details (if you were not born in Canada)
- Cost of living (including rent, heat and hydro)
- Bank account details
- Employment details (if you are working or if you lost your job)
- Details about any earnings and/or income
After you apply
If your application for support through Ontario Works is approved, a caseworker from Northumberland County Community & Social Services will contact you and invite you to a meeting to help you fill out necessary forms and discuss next steps.
If your application for support through Ontario Works is declined, you will receive a letter of confirmation in the mail. Consider contacting Northumberland County Community & Social Services at 1-800-354-7051 ext. 2001 to discuss whether there are alternative services that might provide some support.