The OCF-1 application for accident benefits in Ontario opens an accident-benefits claim and records the accident, injuries, employment and applicable insurance. Complete it accurately and submit it within the applicable time requirements. This guide explains the form, related documents and practical errors to avoid.
Key takeaways: Use the current FSRA form, preserve a copy, ask about related OCF forms and confirm which optional benefits your policy includes after July 2026.
What the OCF-1 does
The OCF-1 is the application that opens your accident benefits claim with the insurer. It records who you are, how the accident happened, your injuries, your employment status and which insurance applies. Many later decisions build on it, including which benefits you may be eligible for.
If you do not apply, or you apply late, you may lose access to benefits. It can also have consequences for a related lawsuit (tort claim), because the two systems interact. For example, benefits that were available may be taken into account when damages are assessed.
Time limits matter
The Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS), O. Reg. 34/10, sets strict time limits for notifying the insurer of your intention to claim and for submitting the completed application. Insurers also have deadlines for sending forms and responding. The exact periods and exceptions should be confirmed for your circumstances. Notifying the insurer as soon as reasonably possible after the accident is the safest approach.
The current version of the OCF-1
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) publishes the standard OCF forms. FSRA lists the OCF-1 (form AF-145) among the forms updated for the July 2026 change to optional accident benefits. Policies taking effect on or after July 1, 2026 use the updated 2026 OCF-1. Always download the form from FSRA, or ask your insurer which version applies to your policy and accident date.
A recent revision made the form shorter and simplified several sections. The changes include:
• Employment questions. A detailed employment-history chart was replaced by simpler questions: whether you missed time from work (yes, no or not applicable) and, if so, the date you returned.
• Employment status. The form asks whether you were employed, not employed, or a caregiver at the time of the accident.
• Caregiver section. A separate, lengthy caregiver part was removed.
Check the details against the version you are completing, because the forms have changed more than once.
A simpler form does not mean less proof
A shorter application does not reduce what you may need to prove. If you claim income-related benefits, the insurer will usually still need evidence such as:
• an OCF-2 Employer’s Confirmation Form completed by your employer;
• income tax returns and notices of assessment; and
• pay stubs, records of employment or business records.
Gather these early. Gaps in employment or income records are a common source of delay.
The OCF-10 election
Some benefits cannot be received at the same time. Where a person qualifies for more than one, they may need to choose between the income replacement benefit, the non-earner benefit and the caregiver benefit using an OCF-10 Election form. The choice can have long-term effects, so get advice before making it.
How the July 2026 changes affect your application
Since July 1, 2026, medical, rehabilitation and attendant care benefits are mandatory, and most other accident benefits are optional. This includes the income replacement, non-earner and caregiver benefits. Whether those benefits are available now depends on the coverage on the applicable policy.
Before the reform, standard coverage included, for example, an income replacement benefit of up to $400 per week and a non-earner benefit of $185 per week. Attendant care has commonly been described as up to $3,000 per month for non-catastrophic injuries. These were the pre-July 2026 standard limits. Attendant care remains mandatory. Income replacement and non-earner benefits now depend on the optional coverage bought. Ask your insurer for a copy of your policy and any OPCF 47R endorsement when you apply.
Common OCF-1 mistakes
1. Waiting too long to notify the insurer or submit the application.
2. Using an outdated version of the form.
3. Leaving questions blank or giving incomplete answers.
4. Describing the accident or injuries inconsistently with other records.
5. Not listing every injury and symptom, including psychological effects.
6. Not keeping a copy of the completed, signed form.
7. Assuming income benefits apply without checking the optional coverage on the policy.
Tips for completing the form
• Describe the accident in plain, factual terms. Include where and when it happened, the vehicles involved and how you were hurt. Avoid guessing about speed or fault.
• List every injury and symptom you are aware of, including emotional and cognitive effects such as anxiety, poor sleep or difficulty concentrating. Symptoms that appear later can be reported later, but a complete start helps.
• Include all relevant insurance information, including policies held by members of your household and any workplace or private health plans.
• Make sure names, dates and claim numbers match other records, such as police reports, hospital records and your employer’s documents.
• Sign and date the form, keep a full copy, and record how and when you sent it.
• If someone helps you fill in the form, review the final version yourself before you sign it.
If you later realize something was missing or wrong, tell the insurer in writing as soon as possible. Correcting a mistake early is far better than leaving an inconsistency that could later be used to question your account.
Conclusion
The OCF-1 application for accident benefits in Ontario is an important first document. Contact Booni Law at admin@boonilaw.com or +1 (226) 271-1751 to discuss a form or timing concern. No outcome is promised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I get an OCF-1?
Your insurer should send you an application package after you report the accident. The form is also published on FSRA’s website.
Which insurer do I send it to?
Usually your own auto insurer. If you have no policy, it may be the insurer of a household member or of a vehicle involved in the accident. The priority rules can be complex, so ask if you are unsure.
Is there a deadline to submit the OCF-1?
Yes. The SABS sets strict time limits for notice and for the application. Confirm the deadlines that apply to you and act promptly.
Do I still need an OCF-2 if the OCF-1 is shorter?
If you are claiming income-related benefits, the insurer will usually still need employment and income evidence, including an OCF-2.
Can someone help me complete the OCF-1?
Yes. A family member, treatment provider or lawyer can help, but you are responsible for the contents. Review the final form carefully before signing it.
Can I get income replacement benefits after July 1, 2026?
Only if the applicable policy includes that optional coverage, and you meet the eligibility requirements.
Help with your accident benefits application
If you need help completing or reviewing your OCF-1 or related forms, or understanding which benefits may apply under your policy, Booni Law can help. Email Booni Law at admin@boonilaw.com or call +1 (226) 271-1751 to discuss your claim.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create a solicitor-client relationship between you and Booni Law. The information in this article may not reflect the most current legal developments and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances. If you require legal advice, please contact Booni Law.
