Quebec Social Assistance (Aide sociale) 2025 Guide
Quebec's social assistance system — known as aide sociale — provides financial support to Quebec residents who are in financial need. There are two main programs: Social Assistance (aide sociale) for people with few or no employment constraints, and Social Solidarity (solidarité sociale) for people with severely limited capacity for employment.
Quick facts: Quebec social assistance provides approximately $726/month for a single person under the regular program. The Social Solidarity program provides higher amounts for those with severely limited employment capacity. Applications are made through the Ministère du Travail, de l'Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale (MTESS).
Two Programs: Social Assistance vs. Social Solidarity
Social Assistance (Aide sociale)
For people who have limited constraints on employment. Recipients are expected to take steps toward finding work, participating in employment programs, or upgrading their skills.
Social Solidarity (Solidarité sociale)
For people who have severely limited capacity for employment due to a disability or chronic health condition. This program provides higher monthly payments and has different obligations. A medical certificate confirming your limitations is required.
Quebec Social Assistance Monthly Amounts (2025)
Single adult (Social Assistance): approximately $726/month
Single adult (Social Solidarity): approximately $1,143/month
Couple (Social Assistance, no children): approximately $1,112/month
Couple (Social Solidarity): approximately $1,690/month
Additional supplements may apply for housing, medications, and family situations.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Quebec social assistance, you must:
Be a Quebec resident
Be 18 years of age or older (or an emancipated minor, or a minor with a child)
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have qualifying immigration status
Be in financial need — your income and assets must be below program limits
Asset Limits
Single person: approximately $2,500 in liquid assets
Couple: approximately $5,000 in liquid assets
Your primary home and one vehicle may be exempt
RRSPs and certain other assets may be partially exempt
How to Apply
Online: Apply through Mon dossier at monemploi.gouv.qc.ca or the Services Québec portal
In person: Visit a Centre local d'emploi (CLE) or Services Québec office
By phone: Contact your local CLE
You will need to provide identification, proof of residency, income information, bank statements, and housing cost details. The process typically takes a few weeks, and if approved, payments are made twice monthly.
Employment Integration Activities
Recipients of regular Social Assistance are generally expected to take part in activities that support their move toward employment. These can include:
Job search and job placement activities
Skills training and upgrading
Community involvement programs
Individualized action plans developed with a counsellor
Refusing without valid reason to participate in required activities can result in a reduction in monthly payments. However, there are many valid reasons that can exempt you, including health conditions, caregiving for young children, and other circumstances.
Additional Benefits and Supplements
Social assistance recipients may also receive:
RAMQ health coverage — Quebec's provincial health insurance
RAMQ drug insurance — prescription medication coverage
Supplement for housing — additional help with rent costs
Supplement for nutrition — for pregnancy or specific medical conditions
Special benefits — for glasses, dental care, prosthetics, and other needs
Working While on Social Assistance
You can work while receiving social assistance in Quebec. Earnings exemptions apply:
Single person: keep up to $200/month without affecting benefits
Couples: exemptions also apply
Beyond the exemption, additional earnings reduce your benefits, but you always benefit financially from working
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