The government announced in November that they'd be doing a second payment to parents to help with schooling costs associated with the pandemic. I've attached some notes on how to apply along with some frequently asked questions:

What is the Ontario "Get Support for Learners" program:

• It is a one-time funding for parents to help offset costs during the 2020-2021 school year.
• It is the "sequel" to the Ontario Support for Families program earlier in the year

How much do you get?

• $200 for each child up to age 12
• $250 for each child or youth up to age 21 with special needs

 

When is the deadline to apply?

• January 15, 2021.

Who is eligible (as per the website):

• It seems as if every child under 12 is eligible provided you are a resident of Ontario. The website even says: "It doesn’t matter if your child is enrolled in school or child care. All children are eligible based on their age."
   
• A child with special needs is:
  • any student reported to be receiving special education programs or services by their school board
  • any child enrolled in licensed child care reported to be receiving special needs funding or support
  • any child identified as having a special need

 

How do you apply:
 

Apply Now

• You have to submit a separate application for each child. Only the parent with custody can apply.

What information will you need:

• Name of the child, their school board (if applicable), their date of birth, an email address and your banking information.

How do I get the money?

• Once you've completed the application, the money goes to the parent who is applying (not the child).
• You can receive it in three ways: e-transfer, direct deposit or cheque.
  • E-transfer will be easiest as you'll just need any email.
  • Direct deposit will require your bank name, branch number and account number.
  • If you don't have banking information and need a cheque, you can make a special request but it will take longer for you to get your money.

 

How long until the money arrives:

• About two weeks assuming you do the e-transfer or direct deposit option. Longer if you go the cheque route. You'll receive a confirmation email for each application after you've applied, keep that email for future reference.

 

Where can I get more information?

• The program's website