Assistive Devices Program
ADP — equipment, not renovations
Ontario’s help with the cost of equipment a person needs because of a long-term disability. About 75% of an approved price. It is the most misunderstood program on this list.
We’re not government benefits experts — this is our understanding of these programs based on public information, and rules can change. Always confirm details directly with the program before applying.
ADP will not pay for a stairlift
This is the single most common wrong turn we found. ADP is about equipment a person uses, not changes to a building. Ontario’s ADP page lists among its exclusions: stair lifts, “chair lifts, or any lifting devices,” and “home renovations (including ramps, porch lifts, etc.).”
Two of the vendor pages we read during this research advertise “ADP funding available” on stairlift products. Families are being pointed at the wrong program by the businesses selling them the equipment. For a stairlift, see HVMP.
What it covers
Twelve equipment categories, including:
- Mobility aids — wheelchairs, scooters, walkers
- Hearing aids
- Home oxygen therapy, respiratory and ventilator equipment
- Prosthetics, orthotic braces and compression garments
- Visual aids and communication aids
- Diabetic, ostomy and enteral feeding supplies
What it does not cover
Stair lifts. Chair lifts and lifting devices. Ramps. Porch lifts. Home elevators. Bathroom renovations. Any home construction.
How much
- 75% of the ADP-approved price for most categories — not 75% of whatever the vendor charges. If you upgrade, the extra is yours.
- Some categories work as a fixed grant instead.
- People on Ontario Works or ODSP can have up to 100% covered.
Who qualifies
Ontario residents with a valid health card who have a physical disability expected to last six months or longer, and who meet the clinical criteria for the specific device.
How to apply
See an ADP-registered authorizer
Usually an occupational therapist or physiotherapist, who assesses need and prescribes the device.The authorizer completes the application with you
They handle the ADP paperwork as part of the assessment.Buy from an ADP-registered vendor
The vendor bills ADP for its share directly, so you generally pay only your portion up front.
Questions: 1-800-268-6021 or adp@ontario.ca.
Combining it with other programs
ADP works alongside everything else here, because it covers a different thing. A family can be getting a wheelchair through ADP and a ramp through HVMP at the same time.