Passport funding in Ontario
A plain-English guide for families
Passport is a Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services program providing funding to adults aged 18 and over with a developmental disability, to take part in their communities and to give caregivers respite.
How to apply
1
Contact Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) for your region
2
Confirm eligibility — 18 or over, developmental disability, Ontario resident
3
Complete the application package and needs assessment
4
Receive your allocation and choose how to use it
What you can and cannot use it for
You can use it for
Hiring a support worker. Community and recreation activities. Temporary respite for caregivers. Person-directed planning. Some transportation costs.
You cannot use it for
The ministry excludes certain items and costs, and the list is updated from time to time. Check the current Passport Guidelines before committing to a purchase.
How much you receive
Every eligible adult receives a minimum annual allocation. Amounts above that minimum require a needs assessment through your DSO office. A separate allocation is available toward person-directed planning.
Allocations are set by the ministry and reviewed periodically. Always confirm current figures with DSO before relying on a number.
Five questions to ask any provider
Police checks
Are workers screened at the Vulnerable Sector level, and how recently?
Insurance
Is the agency insured, and for how much?
Cover
What happens when your regular worker is sick or on holiday?
Minimum booking
Is there a minimum booking length per visit?
Cancellations
What is the cancellation policy, and what does it cost you?
Switching
Can you change providers? Passport funding follows the person, not the agency.
Request a call back
Tell us a little about your situation and we will get back to you within two business days.
Questions about Passport funding?
We are happy to talk it through, whether or not you end up working with us.