Who this affects
Adults with autism transitioning out of OAP face income and support gaps that ODSP is designed to address.
Registered
88,175Children registered
Total in the Ontario Autism Program queue
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Funded
20,666Have active funding
Just 23.4% of registered children
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Waiting
67,509Still waiting
Registered. Diagnosed. Un-funded.
CBC FOI Jan 2026
Verified — CBC FOI Jan 2026
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Children registered | 88,175 |
| Have active funding | 20,666 |
| Still waiting | 67,509 |
ODSP provides income support and health benefits for Ontarians with disabilities. Adults aged 18 and over with autism may qualify if a medical professional confirms the disability substantially restricts their ability to work, attend to personal care, or participate in community life and is expected to last one year or more. A single person receives approximately $1,308 per month plus extended health benefits including dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
A diagnosis of autism alone does not automatically qualify someone — the functional impact on daily activities must be documented by a health professional in the Disability Determination Package.
ODSP eligibility requires meeting both financial and disability criteria:
For autism:The disability must impact the person's ability to function independently. This can include challenges with employment, self-care, social interactions, communication, or safety. A psychologist, physician, or nurse practitioner can complete the disability verification.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Needs | $733/month (single) |
| Shelter Allowance | Up to $575/month (single) |
| Prescription Drugs | Covered under ODSP drug benefit |
| Dental Care | Basic dental coverage included |
| Vision Care | Eye exams and basic eyewear |
| Assistive Devices | Mobility aids, hearing aids, etc. |
| Employment Supports | Job training, workplace accommodations |
Note: ODSP rates were increased by 6.5% in September 2023 but remain significantly below the poverty line. Amounts shown are 2024 rates.
| Feature | ODSP | Ontario Works |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount (Single) | ~$1,308 | ~$733 |
| Health Benefits | Comprehensive | Limited |
| Earnings Exemption | $1,000/month + 75% | $200/month + 50% |
| Disability Requirement | Yes | No |
Contact your local ODSP office
Request a financial eligibility application. You can find your office at ontario.ca/odsp or call 1-888-789-4199.
Complete the financial eligibility form
Provide details about income, assets, and living situation. If financially eligible, you will receive the Disability Determination Package.
Have a health professional complete the Disability Determination Package
A physician, psychologist, or nurse practitioner must document how the disability substantially restricts daily activities.
Wait for decision (typically 3-6 months)
If denied, you can request an internal review within 10 business days or appeal to the Social Benefits Tribunal within 30 days.
Primary Source
Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services — Ontario Disability Support Program. ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program
Rate Information
ODSP rate increase of 6.5% effective September 2023 per Ontario Budget 2023.
APA Style:
End The Wait Ontario. (2026). Is My Autistic Child Eligible for ODSP in Ontario? Retrieved March 23, 2026, from https://www.endthewaitontario.com/answers/odsp-autism-eligibilityFamilies waiting for OAP services should explore all available financial supports.
Explore Financial Supports for Autism FamiliesCommitment to Accuracy: Our data is verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: March 24, 2026.
Verified Facts
$200/month — The Canada Disability Benefit provides up to for eligible Canadians with disabilities
88,175 — children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program
1 in 50 — According to the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth, about children and youth aged 1 to 17 in Canada had an autism diagnosis
23.4% — Only 20,666 children have active funding agreements () — less than one in four
WHO recommends accessible, community-based early interventions for children with autism — timely evidence-based psychosocial interventions improve communication and social engagement