Do you think you may be eligible for last-resort financial assistance, but are unsure how to apply? You can get help with your application.
Are you a low-income adult with little or no savings? You may be eligible for last-resort financial assistance.
Several assistance programs are available. The benefit amount is calculated based on your situation.
- The Social Assistance Program (Programme d’aide sociale) provides benefits to cover basic expenses, such as housing and food.
- The Social Solidarity Program (Programme de solidarité sociale) is for people with severe health-related limitations. These are serious health problems (physical or mental) that significantly limit the person’s ability to work. These limitations must be confirmed in a medical or psychosocial assessment report prepared by a licensed health care and social services professional.
- The Basic Income Program (Programme de revenu de base) came into effect on January 1, 2023. No action is required to qualify. It applies automatically to beneficiaries of the Social Solidarity Program, provided they have had severe health-related limitations for at least 66 of the previous 72 months.
- The Aim for Employment Program (Programme objectif emploi) provides ongoing, personalized support and financial assistance to facilitate entry into the labour market and promote financial independence.
SimulAide is an online tool that helps you determine whether you are eligible for last-resort financial assistance. It also estimates the benefits you might receive.
Need help?
The ministère de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale (MESS) administers last-resort financial assistance programs. It is required to provide you with assistance when you request it.
For example, MESS staff can:
- Help you fully understand the programs available
- Explain the eligibility criteria
- Advise you on how to apply for financial assistance
- Fill out any required forms with you
Need help… with your taxes?
Benefits are a form of income. You must therefore file an income tax return every year, even if you have not worked. Please note that you may be eligible for Revenu Québec’s free Income Tax Assistance Program (service d’aide en impôt). Volunteers can help you claim the tax credits to which you are entitled. Find out more on the 211 website or by contacting your local volunteer centre.
Apply for benefits
To apply for financial assistance, you will need to fill out a form online or at any Services Québec office. You can also call 1-877-767-8773 to have the form mailed to you.
Be honest. If you provide false information and receive more money than you are entitled to, you will have to pay it back. You must notify the MESS of any changes in your situation or your family’s situation.
You are receiving last-resort financial assistance and you have a child under the age of five who attends a subsidized childcare centre? You may be eligible for free childcare services. Visit Québec.ca or contact the MESS for more information.
If you encounter any problems
If you disagree with a decision made by the MESS, you have 90 days to request a review. The MESS can assist you with this process.
If you encounter any problems with the MESS or Revenu Québec, you can contact the Protecteur du citoyen free of charge. For example, if:
- You are having trouble accessing services.
- You believe you are entitled to benefits that are being denied to you.
- Your benefits have been reduced and you do not understand why.
- You are being asked to make a repayment that you believe is unjustified.
