Other Ontario programs while you wait for OAP

SSAH (Special Services at Home) provides funding for respite and skills-development. ACSD (Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities) provides monthly financial support for low- and moderate-income families. Both are administered by MCCSS and can be applied for alongside OAP.

OAP itself includes caregiver-mediated and foundational family services that are accessible before Core Funding starts. These are part of OAP, not a separate program. Sign up through the <a href="/oap-funding-guide" class="text-blue-600 hover:underline font-medium">AccessOAP</a> portal or call 1-833-425-2445.

The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is federal and stacks with all Ontario programs. It is the gateway to the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and the Child Disability Benefit (~$280/month). Most autistic children qualify.

Jordan's Principle funds services for First Nations children when other programs are slow or do not cover. Apply through Indigenous Services Canada (1-855-572-4453). It often funds therapy, equipment, and travel within days to weeks for urgent requests.

Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) provides ~$1,308/month income support plus health benefits for adults 18+ with documented disabilities. Application processing is typically 3–6 months. Apply at 17 to avoid a gap when OAP eligibility ends.

Passport Funding (through Developmental Services Ontario) provides ~$5,500/year (some receive more) for community participation and respite for adults 18+ with developmental disabilities. Multi-year waitlists exist in many regions — register with DSO at 16.

These adult programs do not transfer from OAP — applications start fresh at 18. Plan the transition in the year before your child turns 18.

In the first week after diagnosis, register for OAP and apply for the DTC (T2201). These have the longest queues.

In the first month, apply for SSAH and ACSD through your MCCSS regional office. Both can be started without OAP enrolment.

For First Nations families, apply for Jordan's Principle in parallel — it often funds services faster than provincial programs.