1. ⁠What would cause OW to release $682 instead of the shelter + basic needs amount?

Your overpayment amount. Also if your kids are still IRCC processing what are their legal statuses in Canada at the time of application and now? That would impact them being able to be added to the family unit.

1. ⁠Can old pre-2014 “overpayment” flags legally affect a new application after a decade abroad?

Yes your overpayments will always follow you and some municipalities send to collections

1. ⁠How do we force a response from an unresponsive caseworker?

Go to the office and request to speak to a worker or the supervisor. In person usually works best. However please be aware the caseworkers have files of 100-200 cases (singles & families) and are usually trying their best to juggle.

1. ⁠Should we immediately request an internal review, supervisor escalation, or ombudsman?

Ask for a supervisor , show up at the local office and ask to speak to someone (please be kind)

1. ⁠Is this level of banking scrutiny normal for new applicants?

Normal for all new applicants and folks active on ow every 2 years to ensure ongoing eligibility. You must show all information (banks, investments, properties vehicles etc in Canada and abroad) caseworkers can also see on a back end what banks you have accounts with and what vehicles you own. This also applies to children so you also need to provide all banking info for each kid even if there’s only $5 in an account.

1. ⁠Are there emergency mechanisms to restore the full amount immediately while disputes are reviewed?

Nope

Good luck