The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers the Care Dependency Grant to support caregivers of children with severe disabilities. This grant aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with providing specialized care. As of 2024, the monthly payment for this grant is R2,190 per eligible child.
Eligibility Criteria for the Care Dependency Grant
To qualify for the Care Dependency Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: The child must be under 18 years old.
- Disability Assessment: A medical report must confirm that the child has a permanent, severe disability requiring full-time care.
- Residency and Citizenship: Both the applicant and the child must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees residing in South Africa.
- Means Test: The applicant’s income must fall within the limits prescribed by SASSA to ensure the grant reaches those most in need.
Application Process for the Care Dependency Grant
Applying for the Care Dependency Grant involves several steps:
- Gather Necessary Documents:
- Identity documents for both the applicant and the child.
- The child’s birth certificate.
- A medical report confirming the child’s severe disability.
- Proof of income and assets for the means test.
- Proof of residence.
- Visit the Nearest SASSA Office:
- Submit the application in person.
- Ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.
- Medical Assessment:
- SASSA may require an additional medical assessment to validate the severity of the child’s disability.
- Await Feedback:
- After submission, SASSA will review the application.
- If approved, the applicant will receive a notification along with the grant payments.
- Appeal if Necessary:
- If the application is denied, applicants can file an appeal within 90 days.
Payment Details for 2024
As of 2024, the Care Dependency Grant provides R2,190 per month per eligible child. Payments are disbursed through:
- Direct deposit into a bank account.
- Cash payments at designated pay points.
- Mobile money transfer services.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Payment | R2,190 per child |
| Age Requirement | Child under 18 years |
| Residency | South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee |
| Application Location | Nearest SASSA office |
| Key Documents Required | ID, child’s birth certificate, medical report, proof of income and residence |
| Means Test | Required |
| Payment Methods | Bank deposit, cash pay points, mobile transfer |
What is the current amount of the Care Dependency Grant?
As of 2024, the grant amount is R2,190 per month per eligible child.
How long does it take to process the application?
The processing time can vary but typically takes up to three months.
Can foster parents apply for this grant?
Yes, foster parents can apply, and the means test does not apply to them.
