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Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Works (OW) Information

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Board awards compensation to victims of crimes of violence that occurred in Ontario.

The Compensation for Victims of Crime Act protects awards.

Section 20 of the Compensation for Victims of Crime Act, R.S.O. (1990) states:

Any money paid or payable by way of compensation under this Act or held by the Public Trustee or other person under an Order made by the Board under subsection 21(3) is not subject to garnishment, attachment, execution, set-off or any other legal process and the right thereto is not assignable.

In the event that you receive an award from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board, you should be aware of the impact this may have on the benefits you receive from either Ontario Works (OW) or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP).

It is your responsibility to notify and provide your OW/ODSP caseworker with documentation outlining the nature of the award and its terms in order to ensure your ongoing eligibility. If there is a publication ban on your decision, it is your right to have the reasons for the award kept confidential.

Each program also has provisions for recipients who may receive pain and suffering awards by creating an exemption limit that means the award is not treated as an asset or income. For example:

  • The Ontario Works Act, 1997 includes an exemption up to $25,000.
  • The Ontario Disability Support Program Act, 1997 includes an exemption up to $100,000.

Please note these programs may treat any award for expenses or loss of wages differently.

It is important to contact your local OW or ODSP office for more information by searching your local listings or through the website at www.cfcs.gov.on.ca

Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Works (OW) Information
Revised October 2005

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This website has been created and maintained as a public service by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board. Although, we endeavour to ensure that the information presented is current and accurate, errors do occur. In addition, the material may be subject to review without notice. Users should verify information before acting on it.
Last updated: June 29, 2009