How To Apply
If you are a resident of Northumberland County and need social assistance, there are 2 ways to apply …
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You can call 905-372-6846, ext. 2468, or
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You can visit this website to apply online … www.ontario.ca/socialassistance
When applying by phone …
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The Intake Screener will ask you a number of questions to determine if you qualify for assistance.
This telephone screening will take 15 to 20 minutes. -
If it looks like you might be eligible, you will be scheduled to attend a Verification Interview at our local office located at 555 Courthouse Road in Cobourg.
When applying online …
- The screening process can take up to 60 minutes to complete. This NEW online application is confidential, available in English and French, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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If it looks like you might be eligible, there is also a feature that allows you to suggest up to three dates
and times that you could come in to the local office for a Verification Interview.
Whether you are applying online or by phone, be sure to have the following information for you, your spouse and dependents ready before you get started:
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Birth Certificate
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Social Insurance Number(s)
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Health Card Number(s)
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Immigration Number and Date of Landing (if applicable)
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Cost of Accommodation (including mortgage, rent, heat and hydro)
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Address Information (for the last 12 months)
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Employment Information (for the last 3 months)
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Bank Account and Asset Information (such as RRSP, GIC, CSB)
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Information on all earnings and income (such as Canada Pension or Workplace Safety Insurance Board)
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Notice of Assessment and Child Tax Assessment from Revenue Canada
Please note that you must also bring this information with you to the Verification Interview. During this in-person interview, your eligibility to receive assistance will be confirmed and required forms completed. You will also view a brief overview presentation and you may be asked to complete a literacy screening test. And if so, please remember that it's not a matter of passing or failing - it's a matter of finding out whether you may need help, so that we can then get you the help that you need.
If it is determined that you are not eligible for assistance, you may be referred to other services within our department such as Children's Services and Housing Services or other services within our local community. People who are in crisis or unable to go through the screening process online or over the telephone, will be able to access services at our local office.
