The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides critical financial support to disadvantaged South Africans through various grants.
These grants aim to address the economic hardships faced by millions in the country. SASSA distributes welfare benefits to approximately 29 million people, including the elderly, children, individuals with disabilities, and others in need.
Payments are accessible via SASSA cards, direct bank transfers, or cash transfers at major retailers like Pick n Pay, Boxer, Checkers, and Shoprite.
Below is a detailed overview of the eight SASSA grants, eligibility criteria, and the amounts beneficiaries receive.
Overview of SASSA Grants
1. Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
The SRD grant is designed for South African citizens, asylum seekers, refugees, and special permit holders aged 18-60 who lack the means to support themselves. Beneficiaries must not receive any other social grant or financial assistance.
- Grant Amount: R370 per month.
- Eligibility: Must not contribute to or qualify for UIF and must have no other source of income or support.
2. Child Support Grant (CSG)
This grant helps primary caregivers support children under their care. The caregiver must pass a means test to qualify.
- Grant Amount:
- R530 per child per month.
- An additional R250 top-up is provided for orphaned children, totaling R780 per month.
- Eligibility: The caregiver can be a parent, grandparent, or a child over 16 leading a household.
3. Foster Child Grant
This grant supports children placed under foster care by court orders due to being orphaned, abandoned, or at risk.
- Grant Amount: R1 180 per child per month.
- Eligibility: The caregiver must have legal documentation of foster care placement.
4. Care Dependency Grant
This grant assists caregivers of children with severe disabilities requiring special care.
- Grant Amount: R2 190 per month.
- Eligibility: The child must be under 18 and certified by a medical professional as severely disabled.
5. Disability Grant
Aimed at individuals with mental or physical disabilities preventing them from working for extended periods.
- Grant Amount: Up to R2 190 per month.
- Eligibility:
- Temporary grants are available for disabilities lasting 6–12 months.
- Permanent grants apply to disabilities lasting longer than a year.
6. Older Person’s (Pensioners) Grant
This grant is for individuals aged 60 years or older who can no longer work.
- Grant Amount:
- R2 190 per month (ages 60–74).
- R2 210 per month (ages 75 and older).
- Eligibility: Applicants must not receive another social grant.
7. Grant-In-Aid
This grant is for individuals already receiving a social grant who require full-time care due to their inability to care for themselves.
- Grant Amount: R530 per month.
- Eligibility: Must prove the need for a caregiver’s assistance.
8. War Veteran’s Grant
This grant supports veterans who served in the Second World War (1939–1945) or the Korean War (1950–1953) and cannot financially support themselves.
- Grant Amount: R2 210 per month.
- Eligibility: Must provide proof of military service and demonstrate financial need.
| Grant Type | Monthly Amount | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Social Relief of Distress | R370 | Aged 18–60, no income or financial support. |
| Child Support Grant | R530 (R780 for orphans) | Primary caregiver; means test required. |
| Foster Child Grant | R1 180 | Legal foster care placement by the court. |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2 190 | Children under 18 with severe disabilities; medical certification required. |
| Disability Grant | Up to R2 190 | Mental/physical disability; medical assessment required. |
| Older Person’s Grant | R2 190–R2 210 | Aged 60 and above; no other grants received. |
| Grant-In-Aid | R530 | Additional care needed for social grant recipients. |
| War Veteran’s Grant | R2 210 | Service in WWII or Korean War; proof of military service required. |
Importance of SASSA Grants
SASSA grants account for approximately 3.6% of South Africa’s GDP, highlighting their significant role in reducing poverty and supporting vulnerable populations.
With 4 million pensioners, 13 million child beneficiaries, and 10 million SRD recipients, these grants are a lifeline for many.
How can I apply for a SASSA grant?
Applications can be made at a SASSA office or online through the official SASSA website. Documentation such as an ID, proof of income, and relevant medical records (if applicable) are required.
Are SASSA grants only for South African citizens?
Most grants are for citizens, but some, like the SRD grant, are also available to asylum seekers and refugees.
Can I receive more than one SASSA grant?
Yes, in some cases. For instance, you can receive the Grant-In-Aid alongside another social grant if you require full-time care.
