What Income Qualifies for Legal Aid in Canada?

It depends on the province.

Your income is usually based on the number of people in your household and your total household income. Sometimes this means the gross income (your income before expenses), and sometimes it means the net income (your income after certain expenses).

Income is one factor that is considered when determining eligibility for legal aid in Canada. Legal aid programs in each Canadian province use different income thresholds to determine who is eligible for legal aid, and these thresholds can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of legal issue involved.

Income calculations can differ in each province, so it is important to contact the legal aid office in your area. Remember, there is no national or Canadian legal aid. There are separate legal aid services for every province.

In general, legal aid programs in Canada consider an individual’s income and assets when determining eligibility for legal aid. This includes income from employment, social assistance, investments, and other sources. Some legal aid programs also consider an individual’s household size and other factors when determining eligibility.

To be eligible for legal aid in Canada, an individual’s income must typically be below a certain threshold, which is determined based on the individual’s household size and the type of legal issue involved. For example, in Ontario, an individual with a household size of one may be eligible for a legal aid certificate if their income is below $18,795 per year, while an individual with a household size of four may be eligible if their income is below $45,289 per year.

It is important to note that these are just examples, and the income thresholds for legal aid can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of legal issue involved. To determine your eligibility for legal aid in Canada, you will need to contact legal aid services in your province, complete an application form and provide information about your income and assets. You may also be required to provide supporting documents, such as proof of income and assets.