Frequently Asked Questions

Will my family’s income be considered when determining if I am eligible for Income Assistance?

For most applicants, if you have family members living in your household their income will be considered when determining if you are eligible for Income Assistance.

If you are certified for the Blind, Deaf or Disabled category, your family member’s income will only be considered if they are your common-law partner, you are legally married, or they are your dependent.

If I don’t report all forms of income or assets, what happens?

If you don’t report all forms of income and assets you receive, you can receive more financial assistance than you are eligible for. This is called an overpayment and you will be required to repay the additional amount you received.

Why can’t I receive compensatory benefits and Income Assistance at the same time?

Income Assistance and compensatory benefits are both intended to help pay for your basic needs. If you are receiving enough financial support through a compensatory benefit to cover the cost of your basic needs, you will not be eligible to receive Income Assistance.

When I apply for Income Assistance, am I also applying for the Disability Support Program?

No! Income Assistance and the Disability Support Program are two separate programs. You must apply for both separately.