SSAH: Special Services at Home in Ontario

Yes, under certain conditions. You can use SSAH funding to pay a family member to provide respite or support services, as long as they are not your spouse or the child's legal guardian. The family member must be providing a specific service (not general care) and you must document the service provided, hours worked, and keep receipts. Some families find this arrangement works well for trusted respite care.

SSAH funding amounts vary based on assessed need. Factors that influence funding amount include: child's level of functioning and support needs, availability of other supports and services, family circumstances (single parent, other children with special needs), and regional funding availability. Families with higher needs generally receive higher allocations. If your situation changes, you can request a reassessment.

Yes, SSAH and OAP can be used together. They are separate programs with different purposes. OAP funds autism-specific therapies and services, while SSAH funds broader supports like respite, community participation, and family caregiver supports. Using both allows families to access a wider range of supports. However, you generally cannot pay for the same service with both programs, each service must be funded by only one source.

If your SSAH application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Contact your DSO office to request an appeal within the stated timeline (usually 30 days). Gather additional documentation that supports your child's needs, including letters from doctors, therapists, or teachers. You may also want to contact your local MPP or Autism Ontario for support with the appeal process. Many families are successful on appeal with additional documentation.

SSAH funding is reviewed periodically, typically annually. You will need to submit documentation of how you used the funding and your ongoing needs. Most families continue to receive SSAH until their child turns 18, at which point they transition to adult developmental services (through DSO) or other adult supports. Start planning for the transition to adult services around age 16.

For tax purposes: SSAH funding is generally not considered taxable income. It is viewed as a social benefit. For ODSP purposes: SSAH funding does not typically count as income for ODSP eligibility calculations, as it is considered a disability-related benefit. However, ODSP rules are complex, so consult with your ODSP caseworker about how SSAH may affect your specific situation.