6.6 Special diet allowance | Ontario Works policy directives
Sarah's story highlights the importance of the special diet allowance provided by Ontario Works. For individuals with specific dietary needs due to medical conditions, this allowance can make a significant difference in their quality of life. It not only helps them adhere to their required diet but also alleviates some of the financial stress associated with managing a medical condition on a limited income.
Each requires separate applications, but together they transform OW from a starvation budget into a survival budget. special diet form ontario works
The allowance uses a point system. Each “special diet condition” has a fixed monthly value. For 2025 (rates are updated each July):
: Take the form to an approved health care professional to fill out. Only the following professionals can complete it: Physicians (Doctors) Registered Nurses (Extended Class/Nurse Practitioners) Registered Dietitians For 2025 (rates are updated each July): :
You will typically receive a letter (like this example ) roughly 90 days before the allowance is set to expire, instructing you to submit a new form.
Doctors aren’t always familiar with the form. Many will sign it if you bring clear guidance. But some refuse, calling it administrative overreach. If that happens, ask your OW caseworker if a registered dietitian’s assessment (covered by OHIP in some clinics) can substitute. : Fill in your personal details
: Fill in your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, and Member ID.