Income adequacy, administrative burden and digital access for social assistance recipients in Ontario

This qualitatively led mixed-methods study examines post-COVID-19-pandemic realities for social assistance recipients in Ontario by linking income adequacy, administrative burden and digital access. Adequacy is assessed by comparing Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Works (OW) rates with 2024–25 Market Basket Measure (MBM) thresholds (converted to one-person-equivalent monthly amounts). A 2020–21 online survey (N = 839; OW/ODSP n = 195) provides comparisons of material hardship, health changes, debt and connectivity constraints across respondents relying on OW/ODSP, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, or no income supports. Semi-structured interviews with 16 ODSP recipients (2021–22) were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis to examine how programme rules and digitally mediated delivery shape the work of obtaining and maintaining benefits, and how that work interacts with predictable budget shortfalls. Across data sources, participants described budgeting around fixed housing and utility costs and rationing what remained across food, medications, transport and connectivity. Survey indicators show higher rates of food insecurity, worsening mental health and increased debt among OW/ODSP respondents. Interviews indicate that letters, documentation demands and difficulty reaching staff require time, energy and connectivity, shaping access to benefits and contributing to disrupted care and participation when appointments, reminders and therapy shift online. Although ODSP indexation is intended to improve predictability, the ODSP income floor remains below MBM one-person-equivalent thresholds in Ontario MBM regions; the Canada Disability Benefit is discussed as policy context but not added to ODSP in the illustrative comparison because eligibility and amounts vary. Findings highlight adequacy, accessibility and dignity as core design criteria.