Social Assistance Application

New Social Assistance Centralized Intake System

Peterborough Social Services is pleased to join several communities in launching a New Intake and Benefits Administration Unit (IBAU) February 16, 2021.

What does this mean?

The new IBAU system means if you need assistance through Ontario Works, you can apply directly online at Ontario.ca/socialassistance (if you have access to a computer) or by phoning 1-888-999-1142.

The new centralized intake system will make it easier to get financial assistance faster and match you to supports better. The IBAU system can make it easier to:

• Complete the social assistance application,
• Grant eligibility for social assistance,
• Determine urgency or level of need,
• Issue your first payment, and
• Connect you to our local office.

Eligibility for Ontario Works

Ontario Works provides help to those in need residing in the City and County of Peterborough.

To be eligible for Ontario Works you need to:

• Live in the City or County of Peterborough
• Need money right away for food and housing costs
• Have assets and income under a certain level. 

Even if you think you may not be eligible you are encouraged to call and talk to us. We are here to answer all your questions. 

What do I need to apply?

Whether you apply online, in person or over the phone you should have as many of these items as possible for each person in your family:

1. Social insurance number;
2. Health card number;
3. Proof of identity and date of birth, like birth certificates;
4. Employment history/information, like your record of employment or tax information;
5. Income information like paystubs and asset information like bank accounts;
6. Shelter costs like rent receipts and utility bills.

If there are things on this list that you can't get right now, don't worry.  Feel free to phone the office for an application anyway.

Application package and other helpful information

Brochures

• Email with Social Services
• Interactive Voice Response

Forms

• Direct Bank Deposit

Information Sheets

• Benefits Sheet
• Extended Employment Health Benefits
• Housing Stability Fund
• Living With Another Adult
• Participation Requirements
• Taxpayer Information
• Training and Employment Agency Information

More Helpful Information

Programs

• Sports and Recreation Subsidy

Forms

• Application for Ontario Works Assistance
• Business Income and Expense Report
• Change of Address
• Consent to Disclose and Verify Information

Information Sheets

• Food Calendar
• Free Computer Access in Peterborough