First $200 fully exempt
Monthly earnings exemption
Ontario Disability Support Program Act, 1997 — O. Reg. 222/98
50% of earnings above $200
Deduction rate above exemption
Ontario Disability Support Program Act, 1997 — O. Reg. 222/98
Within 2 years of leaving ODSP
Rapid Reinstatement period
ODSP Directives — Employment and Earned Income
6 months after leaving ODSP
Transitional Health Benefit duration
Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
ODSP recipients can earn employment income without losing all their benefits. The first $200 per month is fully exempt. For every dollar earned above $200, ODSP deducts 50 cents from the monthly payment. This means working always increases total income.
For example, if you earn $1,000 per month, the calculation is: $1,000 minus $200 exempt equals $800. Half of $800 is $400. ODSP deducts $400 from your payment. Your total income is $1,000 wages plus reduced ODSP, which is more than ODSP alone.
Self-employment income follows different rules. ODSP deducts net self-employment income (revenue minus expenses) using the same formula. Keeping detailed records of business expenses is essential.
ODSP provides several work incentives beyond the earnings exemption. The Rapid Reinstatement provision lets former recipients return to ODSP within two years if employment ends. This removes the risk of losing benefits permanently.
Medical and dental benefits continue for the first six months after leaving ODSP due to employment income. The Transitional Health Benefit extends coverage during this period. This is critical for autistic adults who need ongoing supports.
Work-related costs can be deducted before earnings are calculated. These include transportation to work, uniforms, and disability-related workplace supports not covered by the employer. Report these costs to your ODSP caseworker.
ODSP recipients must report all employment income monthly. Reports are due by the end of the month following the earnings period. Late reporting can result in overpayments that ODSP will recover.
Report gross earnings before taxes. Include tips, bonuses, and overtime. Attach pay stubs or a letter from the employer. Self-employed recipients should submit monthly income statements.
If your income changes significantly, contact your caseworker immediately. A sudden increase in earnings can affect your next payment. Proactive reporting prevents surprises and overpayment recovery.
Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
ODSP Employment Supports and Earnings Exemption rules (ontario.ca/odsp)
Income Security Advocacy Centre
ODSP Earnings Rules fact sheet (incomesecurity.org)
Disclaimer:This page provides general information, not financial advice. Consult a qualified financial advisor familiar with disability planning for decisions specific to your family's situation.
Commitment 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