Reviews & Appeals

Internal Review Process

Applicants/participants may use the Internal Review Process if they do not agree with a decision made with respect to social assistance.

To proceed with the internal review, the applicant/participant must submit in writing, a request for an internal review within thirty (30) days of the decision.  The letter must outline why they disagree with the decision.

The Case Presenting Officer performing the internal review is neutral and was not involved in making the decision under review.  The Case Presenting Officer will uphold, vary or reverse the decision.  A letter will be sent to the applicant/participant notifying him/her of the internal review decision.

An internal review must be completed prior to submitting an appeal to the Social Benefits Tribunal (SBT).

Appeals to the Social Benefits Tribunal (SBT)

Applicants/participants have the right to appeal decisions of internal reviews with respect to income assistance and benefits.  Decisions regarding discretionary benefits are not appealable.

The letter will advise if the decision can be appealed to the Social Benefits Tribunal, and will provide instructions on how to appeal.  Applicants/participants appealing an internal review decision can request temporary financial assistance until a decision is made.  If temporary assistance is granted, it must be repaid if the appeal is lost.

An application form can be downloaded here (PDF) or any local Ontario Works delivery site.

Reporting Fraud

The intent of the Ontario Works program is to help people in temporary financial need find sustainable employment and achieve self-reliance through the provision of effective, integrated employment services and financial assistance.

Are you aware of a situation in which someone is receiving Ontario Works who should not be?  To report a case of suspected fraud contact:

  • The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB)
    Phone:  807-766-2111
  • The Ministry of Children and Community Social Services
    Social Assistance Fraud Hotline
    Toll free:  1-800-394-7867
    Email:  welfare.fraud.css@ontario.ca
    Online:  Online Reporting Form (link opens in new tab)Mail:  Ministry of Children, Community & Social Services
    Welfare Fraud Hotline
    Box 333
    Toronto, ON  M7A 1E9
Ontario Works FAQ