Request to Re-open an Application

Jurisdiction: Country: Canada | Province or State: Ontario

What is a Request to Re-open an Application?

A Request to Re-open an Application asks a decision-maker to put a closed case back on track. You use it when your application was closed or denied, and you want another chance to be heard. You are not starting from scratch. You are asking to restore the same file so it can proceed or be heard again.

You typically use this form in administrative or tribunal matters. Courts and boards also use similar tools. The language may vary, but the idea is the same. You ask the body that handled your file to revisit its own process or decision because something went wrong.

You file this request if your case was dismissed without a hearing. You file it if an order was made when you did not attend, and you had a valid reason. You file it if the file was closed because of a missed step, and you can fix the issue. You can also file it if new facts came to light that you could not have presented earlier. In short, you use it to correct process issues, not to appeal the outcome.

This form is common when you missed a hearing for reasons beyond your control. You might not have received proper notice. You might have been ill or faced an emergency. You might have had a technical issue with an online hearing. You might have relied on bad instructions from a representative. You could also need this form if staff closed the file due to a payment error, and you can prove you paid or can pay now.

You may be a tenant or a landlord whose case was dismissed when one side missed the hearing. You may be a small business owner who lost a licensing decision by default due to a notice issue. You may be an employee who could not attend a scheduled date because of a sudden health event. You may be a benefit recipient who missed a filing deadline because of an accessibility barrier. In each case, you ask to reopen so your matter can be heard on the merits.

This form is not an appeal. An appeal challenges the decision itself in a higher forum. A request to re-open asks the same decision-maker to undo a closure, set aside a default, or re-list the matter. It focuses on fairness, notice, and process. It argues that you deserve a hearing because events outside your control blocked you from presenting your case.

Why would you need this form?

You use it to avoid the time and expense of starting over. You use it to stop the enforcement of a decision that you did not get to answer. You use it to correct an administrative error. You use it to put new, crucial evidence before the decision-maker. Most importantly, you use it to protect your right to be heard.

Typical usage scenarios include a dismissal for non-attendance, a file marked abandoned, or a default order. It also includes a withdrawal made on the understanding of a settlement that later collapsed. Sometimes the wrong party name leads to a closure. Sometimes mail returns to the sender. Sometimes a portal hiccup blocks a filing. Your request explains what happened, why you acted promptly, and what you want the body to do next.

When Would You Use a Request to Re-open an Application?

You file this form when your case ended without a fair chance to present your side. If you did not receive notice of a hearing, you may ask to reopen. If you were present but could not meaningfully participate due to a technical failure, you ask to reopen. If illness, caregiving, or a sudden crisis kept you from attending, please ask to reopen. In each case, you explain the facts and attach proof.

You use this form when an application was dismissed for delay, and you can show good cause. Maybe you missed a filing deadline due to a documented emergency. Maybe you paid a fee, but the payment did not link to your file. If you can fix the issue and show prompt action, please ask to reopen.

You also use this process when a default order is issued against you. That happens when the other side filed evidence and you did not respond, often due to a notice problem. If you have an arguable defence and a solid reason for the default, a reopening may be possible.

You may also need this tool after a withdrawal linked to a settlement. If the other side does not follow the agreement, you may ask to restore the application. You explain the settlement terms and show how they were not met. You ask to revive the case so the dispute can proceed.

This form is common across many user groups. Tenants use it after a no-show dismissal. Landlords use it when a notice error caused a default. Small and medium businesses use it in licensing or compliance disputes. Workers use it in employment-related claims. Benefit recipients use it when a missed step closes their case. Regulated professionals use it when a registration matter was decided without them. In each situation, the user seeks a fair hearing on the merits.

You also file this request when an administrative error hurts your case. Staff may have misfiled your documents. The system may have recorded the wrong address. The body may have sent a notice to your old email after you updated your records. A reopening corrects the record and puts the matter back before a decision-maker.

Rarer scenarios include new evidence that could not have been found earlier with reasonable effort. The evidence must be material. It must be more than a new argument about the same facts. If the change is real and significant, a reopening request can allow the decision-maker to consider it.

Finally, you use this form when fairness requires a second look. The standard is practical and fact-driven. The question is whether you moved quickly, have a reasonable explanation, and have an arguable case.

Legal Characteristics of the Request to Re-open an Application

A Request to Re-open an Application is a procedural motion. The form itself is not a final order. It asks the decision-maker to exercise a power to set aside, rescind, or restore. If granted, the order to reopen is legally binding. It changes the status of the file. It may suspend or replace any prior default decision. It may set new steps and dates.

The legal test focuses on fairness and prejudice. You must show a reasonable explanation for the problem. You must show that you acted promptly once you learned of it. You should also show that your case has some merit. Decision-makers consider harm to the other side. They look at whether a reopening would cause unfair delay or cost. They balance fairness to both sides.

Enforceability flows from the body’s enabling rules and powers. If your request is granted, the decision-maker issues a written direction. That direction sets aside or re-lists the matter. It may be the enforcement of an earlier order. It may require the parties to follow new timelines. These directions carry the same force as any other order in the file.

Evidence drives the outcome. Bare claims will not carry the day. Sworn statements, records, and objective proof make your case stronger. You should attach documents that show what happened and when. You should explain gaps and provide a clear timeline. The decision-maker will assess credibility and reliability.

Deadlines matter. Many bodies impose short windows for reopening requests. The clock often starts when you learned of the decision, not when it was issued. If you are late, you must ask for an extension and explain why. You should show continuing efforts to pursue your rights. You should avoid any sign of strategic delay.

Service rules apply. You must deliver your request and evidence to the other side. You must use approved methods and file proof of service. Failure to serve can sink your request. Proper service supports procedural fairness and avoids adjournments.

Costs can arise. Some bodies can award costs if a reopening request lacks merit or causes needless delay. You should file only when you have solid grounds. You should keep your request concise and focused. You should avoid personal attacks and stick to facts.

A reopening differs from an appeal or reconsideration. An appeal asks a higher level to review an error of law. A reconsideration asks the same level to revisit its decision on merit grounds. A reopening focuses on process and participation. Frame your request accordingly. Do not argue the full case unless allowed.

Confidentiality and privacy still apply. Only include necessary personal details. Redact sensitive information when rules require it. If you need to file medical or financial records, label them clearly. Use schedules to separate confidential material if that is an available option.

Finally, accessibility is a legal requirement. If a disability or barrier played a role, say so. Ask for accommodations going forward. Identify the supports you need to participate. Doing so supports your reopening and helps prevent repeat issues.

How to Fill Out a Request to Re-open an Application

1) Confirm you have the right form.

Read the form title and instructions. Make sure it matches your closed case. If the body offers both “reopen” and “review,” choose “reopen” only if it fits your facts.

2) Check eligibility and timelines.

Confirm your file was closed, dismissed, or decided without your input. Note the deadline for this request. If you may be late, prepare an explanation and ask for an extension within the same filing.

3) Gather core details.

Locate your file number, party names, and the date of the decision or closure. Find any notices you received. Print or save screen captures of portal messages and emails. Build a simple timeline with dates and events.

4) Identify the order or event you want to reopen.

In the form section for “Order or decision,” state the date and type. For example, “Dismissal for non-attendance dated [date].” Or “Default order dated [date].” This anchors your request.

5) State the remedy you seek.

Say exactly what you want the decision-maker to do. Ask to set aside the prior order. Ask to restore the application to the active list. Ask to schedule a new hearing. If needed, ask for a stay of enforcement while this request is decided.

6) Explain why the case should be reopened.

Use short, numbered paragraphs. Keep your facts clear and chronological. Avoid speculation. Cover three themes: your explanation, your prompt action, and the merit of your case. For example, explain the notice problem with dates. Then show how you acted as soon as you found out. Finally, outline the key points you would raise if reopened.

7) Attach evidence as schedules.

Label each document as an exhibit or schedule. Use letters or numbers, such as “Schedule A: Emergency room discharge summary” or “Schedule B: Email bounce-back notice.” Refer to each schedule in your narrative by its label. Include only documents that move the needle.

8) Provide a sworn statement if required.

Some bodies require an affidavit or declaration. If so, copy your factual paragraphs into the affidavit section. Swear or affirm before an authorized witness if needed. If a declaration is enough, sign under the statement of truth on the form.

9) Complete party information.

Confirm legal names, full mailing addresses, and emails for all parties. If you changed your contact details, say when and how you updated them. This supports any notice issues you raise.

10) Add representative details if you have one.

Provide your representative’s name, contact information, and license type if relevant. Confirm whether the service should go to you, your representative, or both.

11) Address accessibility needs.

Use any section that asks about accommodations. Describe what you need to participate. Examples include an interpreter, captioning, screen reader-compatible files, or a modified schedule.

12) Explain any late filing.

If the deadline passed, include a short “Extension request” section. Explain why you are late, your efforts to act sooner, and any prejudice to the other side. Attach proof of the obstacle where possible.

13) Request interim relief if needed.

If enforcement is active, ask for a temporary stay. Explain the harm if enforcement continues. Provide records that show the risk. Keep the request focused and proportional.

14) Complete the service section.

List how you will deliver the request and evidence to the other side. Use the approved methods listed on the form. Common methods include email, mail, or portal upload. After you serve, complete the proof of service page. Include dates, methods, and recipient details.

15) Review for clarity and tone.

Read your narrative out loud. Remove adjectives and opinions. Keep to dates, events, and documents. Confirm names and numbers match your evidence. Check that each claim ties to a schedule.

16) Sign and date.

Sign where indicated. If you included an affidavit, sign it before the authorized person. Ensure the date matches your proof of service sequence.

17) File the package.

Submit the form and all schedules by the accepted method. Combine files as required. Use clear file names that match your schedule labels. Pay the fee if one applies. If you need a fee waiver, complete that request and attach proof of income.

18) Keep records.

Save a full copy of your filed materials and proof of submission. Keep email confirmations, tracking numbers, and time stamps. Note the date you expect a response or a hearing notice.

19) Serve the other side.

Deliver the filed documents as promised in your service plan. Do this on the same day if possible. Keep proof of delivery, such as read receipts or courier confirmations.

20) Prepare for the next step.

You may be asked to attend a short hearing on the reopening. Bring your filed materials and original exhibits. Be ready to answer questions about your timeline, your explanation, and your case’s merit. Stay focused on the reopening issues. Do not argue the entire case unless asked.

Content tips help your form succeed. Keep paragraphs short. Use headings or labels if the form allows it. Avoid legal jargon. Be specific about dates and times. If illness or an emergency is involved, provide a brief summary and attach the record. If a technology issue blocked you, include screenshots and error messages. If you relied on a representative, attach their email or letter and explain the misstep without blame.

If your matter involves a settlement that fell apart, attach the settlement terms or communications. Explain what each party agreed to do and what did not happen. Ask to restore the file to address the underlying dispute.

If your case turns on lack of notice, show the address or email used and the correct address at the time. Attach proof that you updated the records or that the mail was returned. If your address has changed, add records showing the date of the change.

If you seek a stay of enforcement, explain the immediate harm in concrete terms. Focus on specific impacts. Attach bills, notices, or other records that show urgency. Explain why a short pause will not unfairly harm the other side.

Finally, remain professional and concise. The decision-maker needs facts, not emotion. Your goal is to restore the file so both sides can be heard. A clear, supported request makes that outcome more likely.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Application means the original filing that started your case. Your request to reopen asks the decision-maker to look at that application again. You are not filing a new claim. You are asking for a second look.
• An order is the written decision that affects you. It could grant, dismiss, or set terms. Your request to reopen asks to cancel or change that order. Attach a copy so the decision-maker sees exactly what you want reviewed.
• Re-open is the process that lets you ask the decision-maker to re-examine your case. It is different from appeal. With a re-open, you are asking the same body to fix something that went wrong.
• Appeal moves your case to a higher body. Appeals focus on errors in law or serious mistakes in how the decision was made. A request to re-open usually targets missed participation, new facts, or fairness issues. Pick the right path.
• Default happens when one side does not participate, often by missing a deadline or a hearing. If you were in default, a request to re-open can ask to remove the default. You must explain why you missed it and show that you acted quickly.
• Service is how you deliver documents to each party. Many bodies have strict service rules. When you reopen, you usually must serve your request on every other party. Keep proof, such as a receipt, email, or affidavit of service.
• Material fact is information that could change the outcome. If you rely on new evidence, explain why it matters. You could not have provided it earlier, even with effort. Link each document to a point in your case.
• Due diligence means acting reasonably and promptly. You must show that you moved quickly after learning about the order or new facts. A clear timeline helps. Long unexplained delays weaken your request.
• Prejudice means unfair harm. The decision-maker may ask how reopening affects the other side. Show how any impact can be reduced. For example, offer to share documents early or propose quick timelines.
• Stay is a temporary pause on enforcing the order. Re-opening does not always pause enforcement. If needed, ask for a stay in your request. Explain the risk if enforcement continues and why a pause is fair.

FAQs

Do you need new evidence to reopen?

No, not always. You can reopen for other reasons. Common reasons include missing a hearing for a serious reason, not getting notice, or a clear error in the process. New evidence helps if it is material and genuinely unavailable earlier. If you have new documents, explain why you could not get them before and how they change the result.

Do you automatically get a hearing if you file the request?

Not always. Some requests are decided on the paperwork. Others include a short hearing by phone, video, or in person. If you want a hearing, say so and explain why it would help. Be ready to proceed even if the decision is made in writing.

Do you need to pay a fee?

Some bodies charge a filing fee. Others do not. If a fee applies, you usually must pay when you file. If you cannot afford it, ask if a fee waiver or reduction is available. You may need to provide proof of income or expenses.

Do you need to serve the other side?

Usually yes. The other side has a right to respond. Follow the service rules for your case. Use acceptable methods. Serve all documents, not just the form. Include your evidence and any stay request. Keep proof of service.

Do you get a pause on enforcement when you file?

Not automatically. Filing does not guarantee a stay. If you risk serious harm from enforcement, ask for a stay in your request. Explain the risk, your chance of success, and why the balance of fairness supports a pause.

Do you have to explain why you missed deadlines?

Yes. Give a short, clear timeline. State when you learned about the order, what you did next, and why any delay was reasonable. Attach proof, such as emails, tickets, medical notes, or other records that support your explanation.

Do you need to attach the original application and order?

Yes. Attach the original application, the order you want reopened, and any related decisions. This helps the decision-maker see the full picture quickly. Label each document and refer to it in your reasons.

Do you need a representative to file?

No. Many people file on their own. Use plain language. Be direct. If you have a representative, include their contact details and confirm authorization. You remain responsible for accuracy and deadlines.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the Request to Re-open an Application

Before you sign

• Identify the decision you want to reopen. Note the file number, date, and outcome.
• Get copies of the original application, the order, and any related rulings.
• Gather evidence to support your reasons. Include new documents, proof of non-receipt, travel records, or medical notes.
• Create a timeline of key dates: filing, notices received, hearing date, when you learned of the order, and actions taken.
• List your reasons for reopening. Keep them short and tied to evidence.
• Decide if you will request a stay. Prepare a short explanation and any proof of harm.
• Confirm deadlines for re-opening requests. Note the last date to file.
• Check if a fee applies and if fee relief is available. Gather any financial proof.
• Verify current contact info for you and the other parties. Confirm service addresses and emails.
• Review any accessibility or accommodation needs. Prepare a short request if needed.
• Choose your filing method. Make sure you can meet the format and size limits for documents.
• Prepare your proof of service form or plan how you will prove delivery.

During signing and completion

• Confirm the correct form. It should say it is a request to reopen or review.
• Fill in the file number and correct party names exactly as shown on the order.
• State clearly what you want: re-open the application, set aside the order, and any stay.
• Summarize your reasons in numbered points. Link each reason to an attached document.
• Attach the order you want reopened and the original application.
• Attach your evidence. Label each piece (e.g., A, B, C) and add short descriptions.
• If a declaration or affidavit is required, sign it properly. Use a witness or commissioner if needed.
• Include your availability for a hearing and preferred format, if asked.
• Complete the service details. Name each party and method of service.
• Add your signature and date. Use your full legal name.
• Review for errors. Check names, dates, file number, and contact info.
• Make copies of everything before you submit.

After signing

• File the request using an accepted method. Follow any format rules.
• Pay the fee if required. Keep the receipt.
• Serve all parties with the full package. Include the form, attachments, and stay request.
• Complete and file proof of service if needed. Keep delivery confirmations.
• Calendar key dates. Include response deadlines and any scheduled events.
• Monitor for a confirmation number or notice. Follow up if you receive nothing within the usual timeframe.
• Prepare for a possible hearing. Outline your main points and organize your documents.
• Keep a clean record. Save a single PDF set and a paper set, both labeled with the file number.
• Update your contact details if they change. Notify the decision-maker and all parties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the deadline to reopen. Many bodies set short timelines. Late filing can lead to automatic refusal. Don’t forget to calculate the last day and file early.
• Giving vague reasons. Saying “unfair” is not enough. You must explain what went wrong and why it matters. Don’t forget to connect each point to evidence.
• Not attaching proof. Claims without documents carry less weight. If you say you did not receive notice, show address records or returned mail. Don’t forget to include the order and original application.
• Using the form to relitigate everything. A re-open targets process problems or truly new facts. It is not a full redo by choice. Don’t forget to focus on the specific grounds for reopening.
• Ignoring enforcement risk. Filing does not always pause enforcement. If harm is likely, ask for a stay. Don’t forget to explain the harm and why a pause is fair.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

1. File your request promptly. Use the correct channel and format. Include the form, your reasons, the order, the original application, and your evidence. If required, pay the fee and save proof.
2. Serve every other party. Use an accepted method. Email or courier may be fine if allowed. Send the entire package. Include your stay request if you made one. Keep proof of delivery.
3. File your proof of service. Some bodies need a formal proof. If so, complete it and submit it with your delivery confirmations.
4. Ask for a stay if needed. If enforcement could cause serious harm, request a pause. Do it in your form or in a separate motion if required. Explain the harm, your chances, and fairness.
5. Prepare for next steps. The decision-maker may ask for responses, set timelines, or schedule a hearing. Read every notice carefully. Meet all deadlines. If a hearing is set, prepare a short outline of your points and a list of documents.
6. Organize your documents. Keep a master set with tabs. Number every page. Create a short index. Be ready to refer to each document by tab or page during a hearing.
7. Address gaps quickly. If the decision-maker asks for more details or documents, respond before the deadline. If you cannot meet it, request a short extension with a reason.
8. Consider amendments. If you made a small error in your filing, ask if you can amend. Keep changes minimal and focused. Submit a clean, corrected page if allowed and identify what changed.
9. Keep communication professional. Use clear subject lines with the file number. Confirm receipt of key messages. Save all emails and letters in your file.
10. Watch for the outcome. If your request is granted, the order may be set aside and the application reopened. You will likely get new timelines or a new hearing date. If it is refused, you may have other options, such as appeal or reconsideration. Check the rules for any further steps and timelines.
11. If the parties resolve the dispute, inform the decision-maker. You may withdraw your request or ask for a consent order. File any required forms to close the loop.
12. Update your contact details. If your address, email, or phone number changes, notify everyone. Missed notices create new risks. Keep your information current until the case is fully closed.