Effective today, ODSP benefit rates will increase by 5%.
This 5% applies to both basic needs and shelter amounts, board and lodge rates, and sponsored immigrants. Services provided in long-term care homes will also be covered.
The new basic needs amount for a singles is $706, up from $672.
The new shelter amount for a singles is $522, up from $497.
The new total benefit amount for singles is $1228, up from $1169.
Clients can expect to see this increase in the cheques at the end of September.
While this is the first rate increase in three years, this increase is inadequate.
ISAC will continue to advocate for a parallel increase to Ontario Works (OW) rates, and for both OW and ODSP rates to be doubled immediately so that our clients can afford basic necessities.