How we count your money
Ontario Works (OW) is a provincial programme. The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services sets the rates and rules, but the City of Wrenford handles your monthly payments and case management. When we calculate your support, we look at two things: your monthly income and your total resources (savings, vehicles, and other assets).
What counts as income
We count most money you receive, including:
- Employment income (wages, tips, and commissions)
- Child support and spousal support
- Pensions and retirement income
- Other government benefits (except the ones listed below)
We do not count all of your income. You can always keep a portion of your employment earnings so that working pays off. We deduct the first $200.00 of your monthly employment income, plus 50 per cent of any earnings above that amount. Child tax benefits and employment insurance payments are not counted as income for OW purposes.
How your monthly payment is calculated
Your OW support is based on your family size and your housing situation. The standard 2026 provincial rates are:
- Basic needs rate: $345.00 per month for a single person without dependents.
- Shelter rate: $510.00 per month for a single person without dependents.
If you have a partner or dependents, your basic needs rate increases. We subtract your countable income from these rates to determine your final monthly amount. For a full breakdown of the rates, see the financial assistance page.
Resource limits (what you can keep)
To qualify for OW, your total countable resources must fall within provincial limits. Resources include cash, bank accounts, investments, and vehicles.
- Single person: up to $5,000.00 in countable resources.
- Couple: up to $10,000.00 in countable resources.
Vehicle exemptions: You can keep one vehicle per licensed driver in your household, regardless of its value. A second vehicle may be exempt if it is needed for employment, medical appointments, or if one driver has a disability. You must declare all vehicles on your OW application.
Home equity, registered education savings plans (RESPs), and life insurance policies with a cash value under $2,000.00 are not counted. If your resources exceed the limits, you may need to reduce them before your OW application can be approved. You can spend down resources on approved living expenses, but you cannot simply give them away to a family member to qualify.
Reporting changes
Any change in your income, resources, or household situation must be reported to your case worker. You have five business days to report changes. Failing to report income or resources can result in an overpayment, which you will have to pay back, or a reduction in your benefits. Learn more about how and when to report changes.
Need help figuring out your eligibility?
If you are not sure whether your income or savings will affect your OW application, drop in to the Service Wrenford counter or call us. Our staff can walk you through the numbers before you apply.
Visit the contact page for office hours and phone numbers. You can also start your application at the application page.