The first hurdle for any applicant is proving financial need. ODSP is a program of last resort, meaning it is intended for those who do not have other sufficient means of support.
You must meet the program’s definition of a "person with a disability" or belong to a "prescribed class". 1. Financial Eligibility (The Assets and Income Test)
Some assets are fully exempt (not counted), such as the first $100,000 of a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), a vehicle used for work/medical needs, and up to $10,000 in a special "exempt" account for saving for disability-related items.
You must be at least 18 years old , a resident of Ontario, and have legal status in Canada (such as citizenship, permanent residency, or refugee status). Medical Eligibility: Defining "Disability"
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is a provincial social assistance program designed to help residents with disabilities cover essential living costs like food and housing. To qualify, applicants must meet specific age, residency, financial, and medical requirements.
You must:
Once financial need is established, the applicant must undergo a medical review. According to the Ontario Disability Support Program Act , a person has a disability if they meet three specific criteria: