Ontario Post-Divorce Budget Planner

Start by calculating your new individual income including any spousal support, Canada Child Benefit (CCB), and Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) payments. Budget $2,160 monthly for basic single-person expenses in Ontario, with housing consuming the largest share at $1,700-$2,400 for a one-bedroom. Track actual spending for 3 months to identify areas where two-household costs exceed your previous shared budget.

A single person in Ontario spends approximately $2,160 monthly on basic living expenses, requiring an after-tax income of at least $3,065. Housing averages $1,701 monthly for bachelor accommodations outside Toronto, while Toronto one-bedrooms average $2,400. Utilities cost $150-250 monthly, food approximately $381, and transportation varies by location.

Ontario residents automatically maintain coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) regardless of marital status, eliminating concerns about coverage gaps common in other jurisdictions. Your OHIP card remains valid, and you simply update your address with ServiceOntario. For supplemental benefits like dental and prescriptions, consider employer plans, private insurance, or Ontario's Trillium Drug Program for prescription assistance.

Housing costs typically double when splitting from shared accommodation, representing the largest budget impact at $1,700-$2,400 monthly for a one-bedroom. Utilities increase from shared rates, averaging $150-250 monthly per household. Car insurance rises when removing multi-vehicle discounts, and you'll need duplicate household items like furniture and appliances for children's second home.

Under the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program, Ontario childcare fees are capped at $22 per day as of January 2025, with provincial averages around $19 daily. This represents a 52.75% reduction from 2020 rates, with further reductions planned toward $10 per day by 2026. Without subsidy enrollment, Toronto toddler care costs approximately $1,600 monthly or $70 per day.

Ontario provides significant support including the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and Ontario Child Benefit (OCB) for parents with children. Ontario Works offers up to $733 monthly for basic needs and shelter for eligible low-income individuals. The Childcare Fee Subsidy reduces or eliminates daycare costs, while the Ontario Housing Benefit provides direct monthly rent assistance to qualifying renters.

Begin by closing all joint accounts and credit cards to prevent liability for your ex-spouse's new debts. Check your credit report through Equifax or TransUnion for inaccuracies from joint accounts. Make all payments on time, as this is the most effective credit-building strategy. Financial stability typically takes one to three years post-divorce with consistent payment habits.

Yes, include both spousal support and child support as either income or expenses depending on your role. Under the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG), support amounts are calculated based on income differentials and marriage length. Budget conservatively by planning for potential payment delays or modifications, and maintain a 3-month emergency fund to cover gaps in support payments.