How to apply for ODSP

1. Step 1: Confirm You Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for ODSP, you must meet the basic financial and disability-related criteria. Financially, your income and assets must fall below ODSP’s limits. For example, a single person can’t have more than $40,000 in assets (as of 2025), not including a primary residence or vehicle. If you're working, your income must be below a certain threshold, but ODSP allows you to work and still qualify in many cases.

You also need to be 18 or older, live in Ontario, and be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee claimant. If you already receive Ontario Works (OW), the transition to ODSP is often smoother, as some of your financial info will already be on file.

This stage is about gathering your details: ID, rent or mortgage info, bank statements, and details about your current income. If you're unsure whether you qualify, contact your local ODSP office or use the ODSP eligibility estimator tool online. Getting this part right saves time and increases your chances of approval. If you meet the basics, you're ready to move on to starting the actual application.

2. Step 2: Start the Application Process Online or by Phone

Once you’ve confirmed you’re eligible, the next step is to start your ODSP application. You can do this in two ways:

1. Apply online at the Ontario government website
2. Call or visit your local ODSP office to apply in person or request help.

The online process is convenient and lets you create an ONe-key account, where you can save and return to your application later. You'll first complete the financial eligibility application. This includes your income, assets, living expenses, and household members.

Once that’s done and you're financially approved, the ODSP office will invite you to the next stage: the Disability Determination Package (DDP). If you’re not financially eligible, the application ends here—but if your income is close to the cut-off, ask to speak to a caseworker, as there may be exceptions or exemptions you qualify for.

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed at this stage. You can ask for help from a social worker, legal clinic, or disability advocate. The sooner you start, the sooner you can move toward getting the help you deserve.

3. Step 3: Fill Out the Disability Determination Package (DDP)

Once you're financially approved, ODSP will mail you the Disability Determination Package (DDP)—this is the most important part of your application. It includes multiple forms, the most critical being the Health Status Report and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) form, both to be completed by your doctor, nurse practitioner, or specialist.

Here's how to do it right:

• Book an appointment immediately with your health provider and bring all forms.
• Let them know how important it is to be detailed and thorough, especially when describing how your disability affects your daily life, mobility, memory, focus, or ability to work.
• Provide examples: difficulty standing for long periods, trouble managing stress, needing reminders for medication, etc.
• You also complete a self-report section. Be honest, specific, and focus on how your health conditions limit your daily activities.

You have 90 days to submit the completed package, but the sooner you return it, the better. If you're unsure how to fill it out, contact a community legal clinic or disability support worker.

This is not the time to downplay your struggles—clarity and honesty here are the key to getting approved.

4. Step 4: Submit Your Package and Wait for a Decision

Once your Disability Determination Package (DDP) is completed, it must be mailed or delivered back to the Disability Adjudication Unit (DAU) in Toronto, using the envelope included. Make a copy of every page before you send it in. You’ll want records in case your package gets lost or you need to appeal.

After submission, the waiting game begins. It usually takes 8 to 12 weeks to receive a decision. During this time, the DAU reviews your medical information to decide whether your health conditions meet the legal definition of a disability under the ODSP Act.

What they look for:

• The condition is expected to last a year or more
• It causes substantial restrictions in one or more areas (walking, thinking, self-care, etc.)
• These restrictions must be verified by an approved health provider

You’ll receive a letter saying either you’ve been approved (great news!) or denied (don’t panic—you have options). If you’re denied, the letter will include instructions on how to request an Internal Review.

This stage is hard—but remember, your application is now in motion. Stay hopeful and organized.

5. Step 5: What to Do If You’re Denied (Appeals Process)

If your ODSP application is denied, don’t give up. Many successful applicants are approved only after an appeal. Your first step is to request an Internal Review (IR) within 30 days of receiving the denial letter. Use the form that comes with your decision, and explain clearly why you disagree with it—focus on medical facts and daily limitations.

To strengthen your appeal:

• Include new medical documents, letters from specialists, or support workers
• Clarify any misunderstandings in your original application
• Get help from a legal aid clinic or disability advocate (they’re free!)

If the Internal Review is unsuccessful, you can escalate to the Social Benefits Tribunal (SBT), where you’ll have a hearing (by phone, video, or in person). Many people win at this stage with proper preparation and support.

Don’t take the denial personally