The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) provides crucial financial and employment assistance to people in Ontario living with disabilities. In 2025, ODSP continues to be one of the most important social support systems in the province — but many eligible individuals are still unsure how to apply, what the ODSP payment schedule looks like, how much they can earn while receiving benefits, and how the ODSP $500 Start-Up Benefit works.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about ODSP in 2025 — including who qualifies, how much you’ll get, how to access your ODSP login, and what to expect after submitting your ODSP application package.
Table of Contents
What is ODSP?
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is a provincial social assistance program designed to help low-income residents with disabilities. ODSP offers two types of support:
- Income Support: Monthly financial aid to help cover basic living costs like housing, food, and clothing.
- Employment Supports: Services to help people with disabilities find and keep a job.
Who Qualifies for ODSP in Ontario?
To qualify for ODSP in 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: You must live in Ontario and have legal status in Canada.
- Age: You must be 18 years or older.
- Financial Need: You must have limited income and assets.
- Disability: You must have a substantial physical or mental impairment expected to last at least one year and that limits your ability to work, care for yourself, or function in the community.
After submitting your ODSP application package, your disability status will be assessed by the Disability Adjudication Unit (DAU).
ODSP Payment Schedule 2025
ODSP payments are issued monthly, and the ODSP payment dates for 2025 are as follows:
- January 31
- February 29
- March 28
- April 30
- May 31
- June 28
- July 31
- August 30
- September 27
- October 31
- November 29
- December 20
Your payments are typically deposited via direct deposit or sent by mail on these dates.
How Much Does ODSP Pay in Ontario?
ODSP payment amounts vary depending on your living situation and family size. As of 2025:
- Single person: Up to $1,408 per month
- Couples or families with children: Amount increases based on dependents and shelter needs
- Additional supports: Special diet allowance, mandatory special needs, and child benefit deductions
As of July 1, 2025, the Ontario government implemented a 2.8% inflation-based increase to ODSP rates — the fourth such annual adjustment since linking rates to inflation in 2022.
This boost applies to both basic needs and shelter allowances (including board and lodgings), as well as payments for couples where one or both have disabilities, and those receiving support in long-term care or specialized residences.
For a single individual, this increase raises the combined maximum to approximately $1,408 per month, ensuring that ODSP continues to reflect rising living costs
If you’re receiving shelter costs and have disabilities requiring additional support, you may receive more than the basic amount.
What is the ODSP $500 Start-Up Benefit?
The ODSP Start-Up Benefit provides up to $500 per household to help cover costs when starting or restarting an independent life — such as after leaving a shelter, hospital, or moving into a new home. This one-time payment can help with:
- Furniture and household items
- First and last month’s rent
- Utility deposits
- Bedding and kitchen supplies
You must request the benefit through your ODSP caseworker. It’s not automatic.
Can You Earn $1,000 a Month on ODSP?
Yes. As of 2025, ODSP allows recipients to earn up to $1,000 per month without reducing their benefits. This employment earnings exemption means:
- The first $1,000 in net income per month is fully exempt
- Any income over $1,000 is reduced at a rate of 75 cents per dollar
- Additional work-related benefits may apply, such as transportation or clothing allowances
ODSP encourages employment, and income reporting is required monthly.
ODSP Login: How to Access Your Account
You can access your ODSP account online via the MyBenefits portal, which allows you to:
- View upcoming ODSP payments
- Report income or changes
- Check application status
- Upload documents
- Communicate securely with your caseworker
To use ODSP login features, you’ll need your Member ID and secure access code provided during your application.
ODSP Application Package: How to Apply
You can apply for ODSP in one of three ways:
- Online: Through Ontario.ca’s ODSP application portal
- In person: At your local ODSP or Ontario Works office
- By phone: With the help of an intake worker
The ODSP application package includes:
- Personal information and identification
- Financial details (bank account, rent, utilities)
- Consent to disclose medical information
- Medical forms completed by your health care provider
Once submitted, the Disability Adjudication Unit will review your medical eligibility.
Summary: ODSP 2025 at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Low-income Ontario residents with long-term disability |
| Max Monthly Payment (Single) | $1,408 |
| $500 Start-Up Benefit | Available upon starting a new household |
| Monthly Earnings Exemption | $1,000/month |
| ODSP Payment Dates 2025 | Last business day of each month |
| How to Apply | Online, in person, or by phone |
| ODSP Login Access | MyBenefits account portal |
ODSP in 2025 continues to provide vital financial relief and employment support for Ontarians with disabilities. If you believe you qualify, don’t delay — start your ODSP application package today and check your ODSP login for updates. And if you’re already receiving ODSP, be sure to report any earnings and ask your caseworker about the ODSP $500 start-up benefit or other hidden supports available.