The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides the Care Dependency Grant to support caregivers of children with severe disabilities. This grant aims to ease the financial burden of providing specialized care. The current grant amount is R2,090 per month per eligible child as of 2024.
Eligibility Criteria for the Care Dependency Grant
To qualify for the Care Dependency Grant, the following criteria must be met:
- Citizenship: The applicant and child must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees living in South Africa.
- Age of the Child: The child must be below 18 years of age.
- Disability Assessment: A medical report confirming the child’s severe and permanent disability is required.
- Means Test: The household must meet specific income thresholds to qualify.
Application Process for the Care Dependency Grant
The steps to apply for the Care Dependency Grant are straightforward:
- Medical Assessment: Obtain a medical report from a state medical officer confirming the severity of the child’s disability.
- Visit SASSA Office: Submit your application in person at your nearest SASSA office. If unable to do so, a representative can apply on your behalf with written authorization.
- Complete Application Form: Fill out the application form in the presence of a SASSA official.
- Submit Required Documents: Provide identification documents, proof of income, medical assessments, and any other requested materials.
- Receive Receipt: Ensure you obtain a receipt after submission as proof of application.
Required Documentation
Applicants must prepare the following documents for the application:
- Identification documents (ID for the applicant and birth certificate for the child)
- A recent medical report certifying the child’s disability
- Proof of household income, such as payslips or bank statements
- Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate of a spouse if applicable
Means Test Details
Eligibility is determined by a means test:
- Single applicants must have an annual income of R223,200 or less.
- Married applicants must have a combined income of R446,400 or less.
- Foster parents are exempt from the means test.
Payment Information
Once approved, the monthly grant of R2,090 can be accessed via the following methods:
- Bank Transfer: Direct deposit into the applicant’s personal account.
- Cash Collection: Withdrawal at designated pay points.
- Institutional Collection: Available for applicants in approved institutions.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee |
| Child’s Age | Under 18 years old |
| Disability Assessment | Medical report confirming severe disability |
| Means Test | Single ≤R223,200/year; Married ≤R446,400/year |
The SASSA Care Dependency Grant offers essential support to caregivers of children with severe disabilities. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the application process, families can access the resources needed to improve the quality of care for their children.
FAQs
What is the current amount of the Care Dependency Grant?
The current monthly grant amount is R2,090 per eligible child in 2024.
How long does it take to process the application?
The processing time for the application is up to three months. Approved grants are backdated to the application submission date.
Can foster parents apply for the grant?
Foster parents can apply for the grant, and they are not subject to the means test.
Is the grant available for children in state institutions?
Children residing in state institutions may not qualify for the grant unless specific exceptions apply.
Can I track my application status online?
Currently, application tracking must be done by contacting your nearest SASSA office or calling the SASSA helpline.
