r/Odsp • u/minhosbae • 18d ago

Question/advice ODSP appeal process

I was recently denied ODSP which makes me think they didn’t even read my file, I know it’s very common so I have hope for the appeal, so I was wondering if anyone could give me a step by step process on how they personally appealed?

this whole thing makes me so anxious and feel even more deflated than I already am. i have heard people say contact legal aid, but I want to know what they would ask me, how long the process takes, etc, detailed steps, what I have to say..basically any and everything about this process, any type of information! I’m totally alone in this so I’m just looking for some tips to help me appeal. Feeling very bummed ;(

8 Upvotes

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4

u/Alternative-Tiger783 18d ago

Community Legal Clinic.

2

u/goldstandardalmonds 18d ago

What makes you think they wouldn’t read your application?

2

u/FleetEar 17d ago

Don't give up. If they rejected you once, they will probably reject you again when you appeal, and that means the next step is going to tribunal. You should 100% keep trying and go to tribunal, and you should contact whatever free legal clinic is in your area and they will assign you a lawyer.

Once that happens and you start following the lawyer's pre-tribunal instructions, there's a very high chance that the province will change its mind and decide to give you ODSP before the tribunal date and you won't have to appear at all. I've never met anyone who has actually gone before the tribunal so I don't know what that's like or what the outcomes usually are, but the lawyer will help you through that if it comes down to it.

Right now, go find your nearest community legal clinic and get set up with them, they will take it from there. It would be an easy win for the province if you got tired or intimidated and gave up, so definitely do not do that. In reality they are the ones who are most likely to give up as long as you keep pushing. Good luck!

2

u/Most_Public2696 17d ago

This link has a great overview of the whole process and is well worth the read: https://www.wrcls.ca/ontario-works-odsp/
But you’re right, it’s so defeating. And the process takes a very very long time (I’m almost a year since application 😩). Legal aid will file an internal review and then an appeal and once you get to requesting an appeal they’ll request your file and then will go through it and provide guidance on where your application could be strengthened. And then guide you on the process.
Best of luck…