If you are receiving Ontario Disability Support Program Income Support, you may be eligible for the Community Start Up and Maintenance Benefit. This benefit can help you if you are:

• starting a new job and need to move
• leaving an institution and need to find a place to live
• leaving your current home because it is harmful to your health and well-being
• leaving an abusive situation
• being evicted from your current home
• faced with having your utilities (heat, hydro or water) cut off.

The Community Start Up and Maintenance Benefit can help you with certain costs, such as:

• paying for your first or last month's rent deposit
• buying necessary household furniture
• putting down a deposit for utilities, such as heat, hydro or water
• paying overdue utility bills.

In a 24-month period, you can receive up to $1,500 if you have children under 18 years of age, or up to $799 if you do not.

How do I get this benefit?

You need to contact your local Ontario Disability Support Program office to make sure you are eligible. Your worker can tell you what you need to provide, such as:

• a copy of your new lease or rental agreement
• a list of furniture you need for your new home
• proof of your employment, if you are moving because you have a new job
• proof of health and safety issues, if that's why you are moving
• proof from your landlord that you will be evicted if payment isn't made
• proof that your utilities (hydro, heat or water) will be disconnected if payment is not made.

After we have reviewed this information, we will send you a letter to tell you if you have been approved.