How does someone start an application for ODSP?
There are three ways to begin an application for ODSP:
Once your client has submitted a complete application, an ODSP caseworker will contact them, within 5 days to schedule an in-person meeting (this could also happen virtually). When attending the meeting, make sure your client brings the required documentation. This includes:
- Their personal information
- Information about members of their household
- Information about their housing costs and/or other shelter-related costs
- Information about their household income and assets
After this meeting, a Notice will be issued to your client within 15 working days. This decision will first determine if they are financially eligible:
- If they are, they’ll receive a Disability Determination Package to continue their application process.
- If they are not, and they disagree with the decision, they can dispute this decision through the internal review process. For more information, see: “What is an internal review?”
How You Can Help:
- Step 1: Help your client gather and organize the required documentation for their application.
- Step 2: Attend and support your client at their in-person meeting.
- Step 3: If more than 15 working days have passed since your client’s meeting with the caseworker and they haven’t received a decision, help them contact the social assistance office.
- Step 4: If your client is told they are financially eligible but that they need to complete the Disability Determination Package, help them find an approved health care professional (e.g., physician, nurse, psychologist, optometrist, etc.) to help them complete the forms.
