Documents checklists

Bring originals where a service asks for them, plus a copy if you can. If you do not have a document, say so on the first call — many services can tell you an alternative or a next step.

OHIP health card — apply in person at ServiceOntario

Proof of Canadian citizenship or immigration status
Proof you live in Ontario
Proof of identity
For ages 16 and up: photo and signature are taken at the centre

Eligibility categories differ, including for work-permit holders. Check the official OHIP page before you go.

Ontario Works / ODSP application

Social Insurance Numbers for household members
OHIP cards and birth certificates (Canadian-born)
Immigration documents (permanent residence / citizenship)
Notice of Assessment and tax information, banking information
Proof of housing costs, income and assets for all family members
For ODSP: a Disability Determination Package completed with a health-care provider

Shared application phone: 1-888-999-1142. TTY: 1-800-387-5559.

Subsidised (rent-geared-to-income) housing

Legal status in Canada for all household members
Signed Consent and Declaration (ages 16 and up)
Income information, including Notice of Assessment and asset income
Information on any arrears or repayment with a prior social-housing provider

Apply through your local service manager’s centralised list — there is no single Ontario-wide form.

Language classes (LINC / CLIC)

Proof of eligible status (permanent resident / protected-person documents)
A free language assessment at a language assessment centre before placement

Canadian citizens, refugee claimants and most temporary residents are generally not LINC-eligible, but may qualify for other English classes — ask a settlement agency.

Legal clinic or Landlord and Tenant Board matter

The lease, notice or form you received
Pay stubs, contracts and dated notes, with witness names if any (for work claims)
Any letters, photos or messages relevant to the dispute
Call or email the clinic first to confirm you live in its catchment area

Food bank or community meal

Check the local bank’s listing first (through 211 or Feed Ontario) for hours, whether an appointment or referral is needed, and what ID or proof of address it asks for
Rules vary by bank — there is no universal Ontario rule, so do not assume

Printable first-call note

Write these down before you call: the organisation’s name, the number you called, the date and time, the name of the person you spoke to, what they told you to do next, and any reference or file number. If you were promised a callback, note by when — and call back if you have not heard by then.