SASSA Grants / List of SASSA Social Security Grants

SASSA Grants / List of SASSA Social Security Grants Explore full list of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and their Requirements to Apply and all information you need to know.

About SASSA

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) was established in 2005 as part of the government’s initiative to combat poverty and enhance the social security framework. Under the umbrella of the Department of Social Development (DSD), SASSA was tasked with the crucial mission of improving service delivery and eradicating corruption within the social assistance system.

Governed by the Social Assistance Act of 2004 and the South African Social Security Agency Act of 2004, SASSA became the pivotal platform through which grant payments were disbursed.

It ensures that financial aid reaches those in need efficiently and transparently. This strategic move aimed to streamline processes, enhance accountability, and ultimately uplift the socio-economic well-being of South Africa’s most vulnerable populations.

List of SASSA Social Security Grants

1- Social Relief of Distress Special COVID-19 SRD R370 Grant:

One of the most popular and beneficial SASSA social grants is the SRD grant R370 or Special COVID-19 grant.

The SRD R350 Grant, rolled out in May 2020 in response to the COVID-19 Disaster, operates within the provisions of Section 32 of the Social Assistance Act, 2004 (Act No. 13 of 2004). It’s aimed at Mzansi Citizens, Abantu seeking refuge, Special Permit Holders, and Asylum Seekers, limited to those between 18 to 60 years old. This grant, offering R370 per month, serves to ease the financial burden during tough times, especially for those hit hardest by the pandemic’s economic impact.

Eligibility Criteria 2024:

• The applicant must have a record in the Home Affairs database.
• Their monthly earnings should be below R624.
• They should not be receiving other government funds or grants (such as child support grants, or old age grants).
• The breadwinner should be unemployed.

2- Child Support Grant (CSG):

The Child Support Grant, launched in 1998, provides financial aid to destitute children below the age of 14 in Mzansi. This assistance ensures that our most vulnerable youngsters receive the necessary support.

Guardians caring for these children receive a monthly allowance of R530 per child plus an R250 top-up, easing the financial burden and enabling access to essential needs like education and healthcare.

Eligibility 2024:

• Children must be under the age of 14.
• The applicant must meet the financial criteria for poverty.
• Guardians must be legal residents of South Africa.
• Applicants should not be receiving other government grants for the same child.
• Documentation proving guardianship and financial status may be required.

3- Older Persons Grant:

The Older Persons Grant, established in the 1920s, stands as one of South Africa’s most significant social welfare programs. Designed to support elderly citizens, this grant provides crucial financial assistance to individuals aged 60 and above.

Those below the age of 75 receive a monthly stipend of R2,180, while individuals aged 75 and older receive R2,200 per month.

This grant plays a vital role in addressing the economic challenges faced by elderly individuals, ensuring they have access to essential resources and support during their later years.

Eligibility 2024:

• Applicants must be 60 years of age or older.
• Applicants must be permanent residents of South Africa.
• The grant is means-tested, meaning the applicant’s income and assets will be taken into consideration. However, specific income thresholds or asset limits may vary and are subject to change.
• Applicants cannot receive any other social grant from the South African government.
• Applicants must apply at their nearest SASSA office by filling out the relevant application forms and providing the necessary documentation.
• Applicants must provide a valid South African ID document or other acceptable forms of identification.
• Applicants must have a bank account to receive the grant payment. If they don’t have one, SASSA can assist in opening a bank account.

4- Care Dependency Grant:

The Care Dependency Grant is a support system designed for parents, foster parents, or caregivers responsible for children with disabilities, whether physical or mental, in South Africa. This grant offers financial assistance amounting to R2,180 per month for each eligible child.

To qualify, parents or guardians must meet specific income criteria, with individuals earning no more than R223,200 annually if single, and couples earning less than R446,400 collectively.

This grant serves as a crucial aid to families facing the challenges of caring for disabled children, providing essential financial relief to ensure their well-being and quality of life.

Eligibility 2024:

• Parent, foster parent, or caregiver of a child with a disability, whether physical or mental.
• The child must be under the care and guardianship of the applicant.
• The age of the child should be below 18 years.
• The child must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• The applicant’s annual income should not exceed R223,200 if single, and R446,400 if married or in a partnership.
• The disability of the child must be verified by a medical professional or recognized authority.
• The applicant must provide relevant documentation, including proof of income, guardianship, and the child’s disability.
• Applicants must comply with any additional requirements or conditions set forth by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).
• The grant is not available for children who are recipients of other social grants such as the Foster Child Grant or Child Support Grant.

5- Foster Child Grant (FCG):

A Foster Child Grant (FCG) is a financial solution for foster parents and children. The payment of the grant is set to R1,180 per month. The payments are available to collect from the SASSA offices and direct bank deposit.

Foster parents have to appeal for this grant every 2 years in court to sustain the grant payments. If they fail to prove the disability or low-income circumstances in the court, the grant payment will be terminated.

Eligibility 2024:

• Only below 18 children can apply.
• Provide proof of foster parenting.

6- Disability Grant:

The SASSA Disability Grant is a monthly payment of R2,180 designed to support disabled individuals in South Africa. Despite its availability, many disabled people, particularly those in the most impoverished areas of Johannesburg, are not accessing this crucial support.

According to a 2010 study from the University of Johannesburg, over 61% of disabled citizens are unaware of this grant. They are living in poor conditions due to the unavailability of income and support.

This highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and accessibility of the SASSA Disability Grant to ensure that all eligible individuals receive the support they require.

Eligibility 2024:

• Individuals must undergo a comprehensive assessment conducted by qualified healthcare professionals to determine the extent of their disability.
• Only South African citizens or permanent residents are eligible for the grant.
• Applicants must meet specific financial criteria to demonstrate their need for financial assistance.
• Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 75 to be considered for the Disability Grant.

7- War Veterans Grant:

The Department of Military Veterans issued the War Veterans Grant to individuals who bravely served in conflicts such as the Second World War (1939–1945) or the Korean War (1950–1953).

Veterans who meet the eligibility criteria, including being above the age of 60, receive a monthly payment of R2200 to support them in their later years. These veterans sacrificed greatly for their country, enduring the hardships and dangers of war to defend freedom and uphold peace.

The Second World War saw global conflict on an unprecedented scale, involving numerous countries and resulting in immense human suffering and loss of life.

Similarly, the Korean War was a significant international conflict that saw the forces of democracy facing off against communist aggression on the Korean Peninsula.

By recognizing the service and sacrifice of these veterans, the War Veterans Grant aims to honor their contributions and provide them with the support and recognition they deserve in their senior years.

Eligibility 2024:

• Applicants must provide proof of service in the Second World War or the Korean War.
• Applicants must be above the age of 60.
• Only South African citizens or permanent residents are eligible.

8- Grant-in-Aid:

Grant-in-Aid is not a separate grant but an addition to the SASSA Old Age, Disability, and War Veterans grant. This grant is offering R500 additional to these three SASSA grant holders. This grant aims to provide extra care and support to those who are already receiving SASSA grants.

Eligibility:

• Only for Old Age, Disability, and War Veterans grant holders.
• Should be for those who need assistance in daily tasks like cleaning, cooking, bathing, etc.

Benefits of SASSA Social Grants

Poverty Mitigation: SASSA social grants play an integral function in freeing poverty by providing financial assistance to helpless individuals and families.

Enhanced Access to Healthcare: Grants such as the Disability Grant and Older Persons Grant facilitate access to healthcare services and medications for recipients, thereby enhancing their overall health outcomes and well-being.

Education Support: Grants like the Child Support Grant contribute to ensuring that children from low-income households have access to education. With the help of assisting with school-related expenses such as uniforms, books, and transportation, thereby promoting educational equity.

Economic Empowerment: By providing a steady income stream, social grants empower recipients to participate more actively in the economy. It also stimulates local businesses and contributes to economic growth and development.

Enhanced Food Security: Social grants assist recipients in purchasing nutritious food, reducing food insecurity, and improving dietary intake among vulnerable populations. Moreover,  it promotes better health outcomes and overall well-being.

Reduced Inequality: Grants help reduce socio-economic disparities by providing financial support to those who are economically marginalized. Therefore, promoting greater equality and social inclusion within society.

Social Inclusion: Grants for individuals with disabilities or older persons enable their participation in community activities, fostering a sense of belonging. These grants provide means for marginalized groups to engage with others, promoting dignity and inclusion in society.

Improved Child Well-being: Child-focused grants ensure that children receive essential support for their physical, emotional, and educational needs.

Alleviation of Financial Strain: Social grants alleviate financial stress for recipients, enabling them to focus on improving their quality of life.