How can your client apply for legal aid without proof of income documentation?
If your client does not have proof of income documentation, they might still be able to apply to Legal Aid Ontario for help, but this will depend on their source of income:
- If your client is receiving Ontario Works or ODSP: Legal Aid can confirm their income by checking with the program.
- If your client is receiving CPP, CPP-D or Employment Insurance: Legal Aid will require proof of income documentation, but they should offer suggestions on how this might be accessible to your client through their specific program or how they might be able to get these documents (e.g., online portal, letter of confirmation, etc.)
- If your client is employed or has assets: Legal Aid will require proof of income documentation (e.g., bank stubs, income statements, pay stubs, etc.)
- If your client has no fixed address and has no source of income: Legal Aid will generally take this at face value, but your client might be asked to provide additional information.
How You Can Help:
- Step 1: Help your client contact Legal Aid Ontario at 1-800-668-8258 if they require a certificate or contact their closest community legal clinic if they are experiencing a civil legal issue (e.g., housing, employment, income assistance, etc.)
- Step 2: Help your client explain their circumstances. Legal Aid will usually guide people through the application process and advise them on what documentation will be required, if any.
- Step 3: Help your client gather and organize any required documentation.
