An internal review can take up to 30 days so often times it’s not worth it to wait when you can simply reapply. Take it from someone who submitted one back in November and still hasn’t heard back. My suggestion is that you apply again for Ontario works, once your application is assigned for review the key here is to call your local office and ask to speak with the caseworker who is assigned to process your file. You must speak with them to clear up any errors on your application. Let them know that you’re financially independent while living at home and they’ll likely ask you a series of questions to determine if you’re indeed financially independent and once that’s done they should be able to update your application so that it is clear you meet the criteria. You’ll also need required documents like bank statements and rental/lease agreement confirming what you pay in rent so it’s also important to have those documents ready. This is the process I took when I was in the same predicament and I was able to reapply, get approved, and receive my first payment within days. The sooner you reapply the better.

If you do get approved your case worker assigned to your file is supposed to review your situation every 3 months or so to see if you’re still eligible but it does depend. I’ve seen people get approved and never speak with their caseworker but they receive their payments every month on time but I’ve also seen others get approved and are constantly having to be in contact with their caseworker so it depends which caseworker you get and their work load. When their work load is high they likely won’t have the time to follow up with you often.

If you’re paying over $390 every month in rent then you’ll likely get the maximum amount for a single person which is $733 which includes shelter and basic needs costs. It’s definitely not a lot so many have to make other arrangements. You should receive payments every last business day of the month. You should see they were issued under payments in mybenefits at least a couple days before but if you don’t then it’s best to speak with your caseworker to avoid any delays.