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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, LITERACY
AND TRUSTEESHIP
Applying for and understanding eligibility requirements of income support
programs can be complex and it is in your best interest to contact the government
agency directly to make sure you have correct information and avoid delays. Many
programs are based on information provided on income tax forms. You should
file a tax return even if you have no income in order to receive benefits. Notify
the government agency of changes in your circumstances (for example, death of a
spouse, change of address) as soon as possible.
Where to get help to apply for
government benefits:
For legal help and advice, contact your
community legal clinic. To find the legal clinic
that serves your area you can go to
www.yourlegalrights.on.ca and click on “Find
Services” at the top of the page. You can also
go to the Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) website at
www.legalaid.on.ca or call them at 416-979-1446.
Additionally, many community agencies provide
assistance with filling out forms. To find one
in your area, call 211. See also Income Tax on
page 107.
Trusteeship refers to having an agency or
individual look after a person’s affairs if they are
unable to do so.
Income Programs
Canada Child Tax Benefit
Toll Free 1-800-387-1193
www.cra-arc.gc.ca
• A tax-free monthly payment made to
eligible families to help them with the cost
of raising children under 18.
• You must file an income tax return to
receive the benefit.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
Toll Free 1-800-277-9914
TTY Toll Free 1-800-255-4786
www.servicecanada.gc.ca
• CPP is an employment-based contributory
pension plan.
• You must apply in writing for benefits.
• Contact CPP directly and speak to a
consultant about what information
you need to provide for the following
programs.
CPP Retirement Pension
• You can apply for reduced benefits at
age 60 and full benefits, based on your
employment contributions to CPP, at age 65.
• You must apply in writing. CPP is a taxable
benefit.
CPP Disability Benefits
• Available to people who have made
enough contributions to CPP, and whose
disability prevents them from working at
any job on a regular basis.
• The disability must be long lasting or likely
to result in death.
• People who qualify for disability benefits
from other programs may not qualify for
the CPP disability benefit.
• You must apply for a disability benefit in
writing.
• There are also benefits available to the
children of a person who receives a CPP
disability benefit.
| A Guide To Services For Tenants | 2012-2013
HOUSING AND HOUSING ASSISTANCE
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, LITERACY & TRUSTEESHIP
103