ODSP Payment Dates 2023

Knowing the ODSP payment date is vital if you receive benefits from the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). If you know when your payments will arrive, you can easily plan your finances and avoid any unexpected expenses.

In most months, ODSP benefits are disbursed on the last business day of the month, but the date is moved up in December. The ODSP payment date is subject to change from year to year, so ensure you always stay up to date.

You can check the next payment date below. Eligible applicants can receive payments via bank deposit, card payment, or cheque.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the ODSP payment date for 2023, along with other essential details related to the program. We will discuss the eligibility criteria for ODSP, the application process, and how payments are distributed.

The article will also explore the different types of benefits available under ODSP.

What is ODSP?

ODSP is a government-funded program that has been helping eligible individuals with disabilities in Ontario since its founding in 1997. The initiative has supported over 520,000 disabled individuals in Ontario since its inception.

The government established the program to provide financial assistance and other support to those unable to work due to disabilities. The money helps with living expenses like rent, food, and clothing.

It also caters to other supports such as health benefits, employment support, and assistance with managing finances.

Furthermore, ODSP also provides income and employment assistance to individuals with disabilities. The Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services administers the initiative.

The ODSP serves as the last resort for people with disability who must have exhausted their options for financial assistance.

ODSP payment date 2023

The ODSP payment date typically falls on the last business day of every month, except December, when payments come a few days early. That said, the ODSP payment date for 2023 are as follows:

Benefit Month	ODSP Payment Date
January	January 31, 2023
February	February 28, 2023
March	March 31, 2023
April	April 28, 2023
May	May 31, 2023
June	June 30, 2023
July	July 31, 2023
August	August 31, 2023
September	September 29, 2023
October	October 31, 2023
November	November 30, 2023
December	TBD

What are the ODSP eligibility criteria?

Suppose you or a loved one are considering applying for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). In that case, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria.

To qualify for the program, you must meet specific criteria related to income, assets, and disability.

Basic eligibility requirements

To be eligible for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), you must meet specific basic requirements. These requirements ensure that only those who need financial assistance and other support can access the program.

1. You must be at least 18 years old. A disabled minor under the age of 18 has until six months before their birthday to apply for the program. The minimum age for receiving employment support is 16.
2. Secondly, you must be a resident of Ontario. You must have lived in Ontario for a certain period to be eligible for the program. Furthermore, you must have legal permission to work in Canada for employment support to be provided to you.
3. You must meet the ODSP definition of a person with disabilities. This implies you have a severe bodily or mental impairment and must have persisted for at least a year. You may qualify if your health prevents you from working, caring for yourself, or participating in social activities.
4. You must also have severe financial difficulty and meet the prescribed class criteria.

Financial status requirement

Applicants must demonstrate that their household’s finances cannot cover their basic living expenses to qualify for financial assistance.

The caseworker considers factors such as income sources, benefits received, assets, and other factors when assessing an applicant’s eligibility for ODSP. The income and assets of the applicant are considered to determine their eligibility for ODSP.

Income eligibility

The ODSP requires that your income sources be reported to and assessed by your caseworker when applying for the program.

Some examples of income include Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefits, Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) benefits, earnings from a job or training program, and Old Age Security (OAS).

However, some income sources are exempt, including child support, some federal and provincial tax benefits, income from a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), and student loans from the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).

Asset eligibility

The ODSP has specific income and asset thresholds determining your eligibility. A single recipient can own up to $40,000 in total non-exempt assets, while couples or common-law partners cannot have more than $50,000 in combined assets.

When applying for income support, your eligibility and the amount you may receive can be affected by various assets you or your family own.

These assets may include the amount of money in your bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. Registered retirement savings plans (RRSP), vehicles, trust funds, life insurance, and properties like houses and lands.

However, some assets are exempt and will not affect your eligibility or how much you receive from ODSP income support. These include the house you own or live in, your primary vehicle, prepaid funerals, and registered education savings plans (RESP).

Inherited trust funds or life insurance policies of less than $100,000 household essentials and personal items such as furniture and clothes are also exempted.

ODSP recipients can possess amounts under the asset ceilings and even earn interest on these amounts.

They may continue receiving these benefits if the total accumulated amount stays under the ceiling, which is determined monthly. Applicants can contact their caseworker if the limits and ceilings seem stringent.

Disability requirements

The ODSP Act defines a “person with a disability” as someone with a significant psychological or physical impairment. This condition must be ongoing and severe enough that you can’t function normally on a daily basis for at least a year. It needs to be a long-term and ongoing issue.

The impairment must also seriously limit such activities as work, self-care, and social interaction. This means you must be unable to earn a living or support yourself financially due to disability.

It’s also important to note that an approved health professional must confirm your disability.

During the ODSP application, you’ll be required to complete a Disability Determination Package (DDP), which will be reviewed by specialized ministry staff.

This package includes information about your disability, its impact on your daily life, and verification from a qualified healthcare professional.

People who fall into the Prescribed Class automatically qualify for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). As such, they don’t need to go through the disability adjudication process.

These classes include individuals who are blind, deaf, or have an intellectual disability.

ODSP application process

Financial aid and help finding suitable employment are two of the main goals of the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). Applying for the ODSP can be done in three ways: online, over the phone, or in person at your local ODSP office or any ODSP office across Ontario.

Before applying for the ODSP, there are certain documents that you will need to prepare, including:

• Social Insurance Number (SIN)
• Birth certificates for yourself and your dependents
• Cards provided by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)
• Documents showing your immigration status (if any)
• Bank account information.

You will also be required to provide verifiable documents showing your financial situation. Your caseworker will assess this. Furthermore, there are two types of support you can enroll in when applying for the ODSP: income support and employment support.

Income support application process

To apply for income support, you must complete two phases of the application process.

Phase 1: financial eligibility

A caseworker will assess your financial eligibility during your first visit to the ODSP office via phone or online form. The caseworker will notify you within 15 business days after your first meeting with your caseworker.

If you pass the initial eligibility check, you’ll move on to Step 2 of the application process. You’ll then receive a Disability Determination Package (DDP) outlining the next steps to take.

Even if you don’t have the money to pay for an external review, you can still submit paperwork for an internal review. This works if you believe you have a valid case. 

Phase 2: disability determination

After receiving the Disability Determination Package (DDP), you must complete and submit it within the required time. The DDP has two main sections that approved health professionals must complete. These sections include the Health Status Report and the Activities of Daily Living Index.

In addition, the DDP also has the following:

• The Self Report
• The Consent to the Release of Medical Information.
• An Instructions Sheet
• An Addressed Envelope

The Health Status Report details the individual’s health situation, including their diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis. The Activities of Daily Living Index shows how the applicant’s health limits job, self-care, and community involvement.

Registered nurses, ophthalmologists, optometrists, psychological associates, physicians, and psychologists can complete the Disability Determination Package (DDP)’s two stages.

Additionally, therapists, audiologists, chiropractors, physiotherapists, speech-language pathologists, and social workers may be needed to complete the Activities of Daily Living Index.

The application should be submitted within 90 days of getting the package and reviewed in 10 business days or longer, depending on the complexity.

How is ODSP payment distributed?

If you are eligible to receive ODSP benefits, you are likely wondering how to receive your payments. The good news is that three different methods are available, each with unique benefits and drawbacks.

Note that the ODSP payment date may vary depending on your chosen disbursement method.

Direct bank deposit

Direct bank deposit is the most preferred option. It is usually the quickest and most straightforward of the three payment methods. With this option, your funds are guaranteed to be available on the ODSP payment date.

The funds will be deposited directly into your bank account. You will receive an email or text message notification to confirm the deposit.

This method is secure and saves you a trip to the bank, ensuring that you get your money faster and without any hassle.

Reloadable payment card

You can receive your payments via a reloadable payment card if you don’t have a bank account. This option functions like a regular debit card; on the ODSP payment date, the funds will be loaded onto the card every month.

You can then withdraw the funds at any ATM, use them for online transactions, or pay for goods and services in-store. The card is secure and convenient, eliminating the need for a bank account. ODSP payment date for reloadable payment cards stays the same, and users rarely experience delays with receiving funds.

Cheque

The cheque option is used in exceptional cases and is discouraged by ODSP. There are only a few valid reasons why you want to receive ODSP payment by cheque.

If you live far from the bank, ATM, or debit card, you can accept payments by cheque.

Additionally, this option is not recommended if you need access to a debit card or an online account or are not equipped to use one.

Opting for cheques means waiting days after the ODSP payment date before receiving your payment. The delay may take longer, depending on the mail service in your area. 

Exceptions to receiving payments by cheque

The most common monthly payment methods are direct deposit and reloadable payment cards. However, you may also be able to receive payments in the shape of a cheque. This is only done in rare instances and for people in these categories (but not restricted to):

• Living in an area without access to a bank or ATM
• Having a disability that makes it difficult to use a bank account or reloadable payment card
• Living in an institution or group home where using a bank account or reloadable payment card is not feasible
• Not having the necessary identification documents to open a bank account
• Living on a First Nations reserve where a direct deposit is not available

If you believe you qualify for an exception and want to receive your ODSP payments by cheque, contact your case worker to discuss your options.

Choosing the right payment method

Consider your individual needs and circumstances when deciding on the best payment method for your ODSP payments. A reloadable payment card may work if you don’t have a bank account or ATM. Direct bank input is the fastest and most reliable.

If you believe you qualify for an exception to receive payments by cheque, discuss it with your case worker. However, remember that you might receive your funds later than the stipulated ODSP payment date.

Furthermore, it is essential to note that you can change your payment method anytime by contacting ODSP. If unsure which method is best for you, ask your caseworker for guidance.

ODSP benefits amount payment details

As an Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) recipient, you are entitled to various benefits for your basic needs, shelter, board, and lodging. Here’s what you need to know about each benefit:

ODSP basic needs benefit

The ODSP Basic Needs Benefit provides recipients with a monthly allowance to cover necessary expenses such as food, clothing, and other basic needs.

The amount you receive is determined by several factors specific to your circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the factors used to determine the amount you will receive under the ODSP Basic Needs Benefit:

• Family size: The number of individuals in your household is a significant factor in determining the amount of your monthly allowance. The larger your family, the more financial assistance you can receive.
• Age of dependents: If you have dependents who are under the age of 18, their age will also be taken into consideration when calculating your allowance.
• Individual benefit unit circumstances: The benefit unit is the recipient plus each dependent. Your specific family circumstances will impact the amount of financial assistance you receive.
• Location: If you live in a remote location, you may be eligible for an additional allowance to help cover the higher cost of living in these areas.
• Double disabled rate: This rate kicks in if your spouse is eligible for ODSP or a few other circumstances.

Maximum ODSP payment for basic needs

It’s important to note that the maximum amount an ODSP recipient can receive for their basic needs is $706 if they have no dependents.

The number of dependents other than a spouse	Number of Dependents 18 years above	Number of Dependents 17 years below	Amount in dollars	Recipient and Spouse Amount in dollars	Recipient and Spouse Amount in dollars ( both living with disabilities)
0	0	0	$706	$1,018	$1,409
1	0	1	$849	$1,018	$1,409
1	1	0	$1,094	$1,216	$1,607
2	0	2	$849	$1,018	$1,409
2	1	1	$1,094	$1,216	$1,607
2	2	0	$1,293	$1,437	$1,828

Note: Families with more than two children or dependents are not considered in the table. A $222 increase is typically for each extra adult dependent on an ODSP recipient over 18.

These benefits don’t cover shelters can’t because they combine food and utility bills into one bill. The recipient may be eligible for additional funds if they require a special diet or added nutrition while breastfeeding.

ODSP shelter benefit

This benefit is intended to assist with the cost of housing. It covers various expenses related to your primary residence, including rent, mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities, and insurance.

Here are some key points regarding the ODSP Shelter Benefit:

• The benefit amount will depend on family size, age, and other factors. For example, the maximum shelter you can receive is $497 monthly if you are single. This amount increases to $1,026 monthly for households with six or more people.
• Suppose you have a second residence that you qualify for. In that case, you might receive an additional $455 or the cost of maintaining that residence, whichever is less.
• You are eligible for the Shelter Benefit even if you live in a co-op or condominium, where you must pay your share of collective expenses.
• If you are a homeowner, you may be eligible for the Home Repairs Benefit, which assists with the cost of significant repairs to your home.

The number of Household Members	Maximum Monthly Shelter Allowance
1	$522
2	$821
3	$889
4	$964
5	$1,041
6 or more	$1,078

ODSP board and lodging benefit

You may be eligible for the ODSP Board and Lodging Benefit if you live in a group or private home. This benefit covers the cost of your accommodation and meals. The amount you receive is based on the type of home you live in and the services provided.

The ODSP Board and Lodging Benefit replace the Shelter and Basic Needs Benefit. Your living and eating costs are likely lower than if you were renting an apartment and buying groceries. So, if you’re eligible for this benefit, you’ll receive one combined payment.

The amount you can receive from the ODSP Board and Lodging Benefit varies based on your circumstances. For a single recipient, the maximum amount is $867. If you have a spouse or common-law partner living in the same unit, you may be eligible for up to $1,292.

If both you and your spouse or common-law partner have a disability, the maximum amount increases to $1,727. Recipients who receive shelter and basic needs from the same source have their income calculated differently from those who do not.

The amount received is affected by the number of family members, age of family members, and location of residence.

ODSP transition child benefit

ODSP supports families with disabled children with the Transition Child Benefit. This benefit is intended to help cover the costs of raising a child with a disability. To be eligible for the Transition Child Benefit, you must meet the following requirements:

• To qualify for ODSP Income Support, you must have a child under 18.
• You are not qualified for the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) or the National Child Benefit Supplement. (NCBS).
• One of your children is getting an OCB benefit that is less than the utmost allowed by law.

The Transition Child Benefit provides additional aid to disabled individuals with sole or shared custody of a child. This benefit helps alleviate some financial burdens of raising a disabled child, such as medical expenses, specialized equipment, and home modifications.

ODSP income support

ODSP Income Support is a financial assistance program designed to provide monthly payments to eligible individuals who cannot work due to a disability.

This program helps low-income people pay for food, housing, and other essentials. Your income and other factors make up to $1,169 monthly for your Income Support payment.

One of the good things about ODSP money Support is that some types of money don’t affect whether you qualify or how much you get.

These include payments from an RDSP (Registered Disability Savings Plan), OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program), loans for school costs, and child support.

If you are having trouble making ends meet because of a disability, ODSP Income Support may be able to help. With a monthly payment covering basic needs and shelter costs, this program can help alleviate the financial burden of living with a disability.

ODSP health and disability benefits

Perhaps you’re a recipient of ODSP income support. In that instance, you may qualify for a range of health benefits to help cover the costs of medical expenses.

Prescription drug coverage

The ODSP provides prescription drug coverage for drugs listed in the Ontario Drug Benefit Formulary. If you are 25 or older, your doctor can recommend a formulary drug for free or with a $2 co-payment.

There are thresholds for OTC drugs and the number of diabetic testing strips you can receive in a year.

Dental coverage

The ODSP dental coverage provides essential dental services and additional services if necessary for your well-being. Your children aged 17 and under are enrolled in Healthy Smiles Ontario and receive a dental card.

You and your spouse may also get coverage for essential dental work and prescribed medications and treatments for oral health.

Vision coverage

Suppose you still need to receive benefits under OHIP. In that case, you may qualify for vision care benefits, including eye exams, prescription eyeglasses, and repair costs.

It covers repairs, one eye test every two years, and a pair of glasses for you or your dependents every three years. If you have a medical condition that affects your eyes, you may also be eligible for a significant eye examination.

Nutritional allowance

The ODSP offers a healthy allowance to help cover the costs of a regular or specialized diet.

If you or a family member are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may be eligible for up to $50/month for specialized diets. A regular diet allowance is up to $40/month.

Extended health benefit

ODSP recipients who are no longer eligible for income support may be able to access comprehensive health benefits.

These benefits can offset the costs required to meet their healthcare needs. It covers people with high medical costs and expenses but not eligible for income support payments.

Insurance coverage for medical supplies

The ODSP medical supplies insurance covers syringes, blood glucose monitors, and surgical supplies for people with diabetes. If you need these supplies, inform your caseworker of what you want to buy.

Transitional health benefit

If you are transitioning from ODSP to work but don’t have adequate coverage, you may qualify for transitional health benefits.

This benefit covers prescription drugs, dental, vision, medical appointment transportation, medical devices, and medical supplies for ODSP users who work.

Medical supplies and transportation

You or your children may receive diabetic and surgical supplies if a doctor or nurse signs the medical necessity form.

You might be eligible for transportation cost coverage if you spend about $15 or more on medical transportation (routine check-ups, therapy, etc.).

ODSP employment benefits

Employment Support, part of the Ontario Disability Support Program, helps people prepare for, find, advance, or become self-employed.

The program has partnered with over 150 community-based service providers all over Ontario. These service providers can offer various services, including:

• Job coaching: Job coaches work with individuals to identify their strengths and weaknesses and help them develop the skills needed to succeed in the workplace.
• Computer training: Many jobs today require basic computer skills. ODSP Employment Support offers training to help individuals with disabilities improve their computer literacy.
• Budgeting and marketing skills: ODSP Employment Support can help individuals develop the skills to manage their finances and market their services or products.
• Business planning: For individuals interested in starting their businesses, ODSP Employment Support offers business planning services to help them develop a successful business plan.
• Childcare support: ODSP Employment Support can cover the total cost of childcare for individuals who start their businesses, providing them with more financial flexibility.

They also help you obtain tools and equipment, licenses and certifications, and provide transportation assistance to succeed in their jobs.

Eligibility for ODSP employment support

To qualify for ODSP Employment Support, you need to meet specific requirements, including:

• Be a resident of Ontario
• Be over 16 years old
• Legally allowed to work in Canada
• Have a significant physical or mental disability that is likely to last for at least a year, which creates additional challenges in finding and keeping a job.

Having met these criteria, you can apply for ODSP Employment Support, even if you are not receiving ODSP Income Support.

How to apply for ODSP employment support

To apply for ODSP Employment Support, you must fill out the Application for Employment Support form, which you can find on the ODSP website or request from a local ODSP office.

If you are a first-time applicant, you must also complete the Verification of Disability or Impairment form.

Once you submit your application, you will undergo the Verification of Disability or Impairment process, which verifies your disability or impairment. If you receive ODSP Income Support, this process is unnecessary, as your disability would have already been confirmed.

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