SASSA Care Dependency Grant – Full Guide for South Africans

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers several grants to help people who face financial hardship. One of the most important grants is the Care Dependency Grant. This grant supports caregivers of children with severe physical or mental disabilities. It ensures that the child gets proper care and that the caregiver can manage the extra costs that come with special needs.

This article will explain everything you need to know about the Care Dependency Grant in 2025. We will cover the purpose, amount, requirements, application process, documents, approval time, reasons for rejection, appeal process, and payment dates.

What Is the Care Dependency Grant?

The Care Dependency Grant is a monthly financial support from the government. It helps caregivers who look after children with disabilities that require full-time care. The grant helps cover daily living expenses, medical needs, and extra support required for the child.

This grant is only for children under the age of 18. Once the child turns 18, they may apply for the Disability Grant if they still meet the criteria.

How Much Is the Care Dependency Grant in 2025?

As of June 2025, the amount of the Care Dependency Grant is R2,180 per month. This amount may increase slightly during the year depending on government adjustments. Payments are made monthly through several options like SASSA cards, bank accounts, or selected retail stores.

Who Can Apply for the Care Dependency Grant?

To qualify, both the caregiver and the child must meet specific requirements. These include citizenship, age, disability, and income limits. Below is a clear breakdown:

1. Applicant Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
• Must live in South Africa
• Must be the primary caregiver of the child

2. Child Requirements:

• Must be under 18 years of age
• Must have a severe physical or mental disability
• Must need permanent care at home

3. Medical Requirement:

A medical assessment from a government doctor is mandatory. The doctor must confirm that the child has a disability that needs full-time care.

4. Means Test:

• If you are single, your yearly income must be less than R249,600
• If you are married, your combined yearly income must be less than R499,200

What Documents Do You Need to Apply?

To apply, you must visit a SASSA office and bring the following documents:

For the caregiver (applicant):

• South African ID (or refugee ID)
• Proof of income (salary slips or bank statements)
• Proof of marital status (marriage certificate, divorce order, or affidavit)
• Proof of address (utility bill or letter from traditional leader)

For the child:

• Child’s birth certificate (with a 13-digit ID number)
• Medical report from a state-approved doctor (less than 3 months old)
• If the child is adopted, provide adoption papers

If one or both parents are dead or missing, bring a death certificate or a sworn affidavit explaining the situation.

How to Apply for the Care Dependency Grant by SASSA

You cannot apply online for this grant. You must visit your nearest SASSA office. Here are the steps:

1. Go to a SASSA local office
2. Request the Care Dependency Grant application form
3. A SASSA official will help you fill out the form
4. Submit all required documents
5. Take the child to a state-approved doctor for the disability assessment
6. The doctor will complete a report and send it to SASSA
7. SASSA will review the medical and financial information
8. If approved, you will start receiving payments

The application is free. You do not need to pay anyone to apply. If someone asks for money, report them to SASSA immediately.

How Long Does Approval Take?

SASSA will usually inform you within 3 months if your application is successful. If your grant is approved, SASSA will backdate the first payment to the day you applied. You will receive a lump sum for the months you waited.

If the application is rejected, SASSA will give you a letter with the reasons.

Why Can an Application Be Rejected?

There are many reasons why SASSA may reject your application. Some common reasons are:

• The child does not meet the disability criteria
• Your income is above the allowed threshold
• You provided false or missing documents
• You are not the primary caregiver
• You are already receiving another grant for the child

If you believe SASSA made a mistake, you can challenge their decision.

How to Appeal If Your Application Is Rejected

If SASSA rejects your application, you have 90 days to appeal. Here’s how to do it:

1. Visit your SASSA office
2. Ask for the appeal form
3. Fill in the form and explain why you disagree with the decision
4. Attach any supporting documents (such as a new medical report)
5. Submit the form to SASSA

The appeal will be sent to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA). They will review your case and send you a final decision.

How Do You Receive the Grant Money?

Once your application is approved, you can choose one of the following payment methods:

• SASSA Card: Money is loaded monthly on a gold SASSA card. You can withdraw it at ATMs or stores like Shoprite, Boxer, or Pick n Pay.
• Bank Account: You can ask SASSA to pay the grant into your bank account.
• Cash Payment Points: In rural areas, mobile pay points are available on specific days.

You can change your payment method later. Just visit SASSA with your ID and proof of bank details.

Monthly Payment Dates for 2025

SASSA releases a payment schedule every year. The expected dates for the Care Dependency Grant in 2025 are:

Can the Grant Be Suspended or Cancelled?

Yes. SASSA may suspend or cancel your grant if:

• The child no longer needs full-time care
• The child turns 18
• You do not collect the grant for 3 months
• You provide false information
• Your income goes above the limit
• The child dies

If your grant is suspended, SASSA will notify you in writing. You can appeal the decision if you think it’s unfair.

Important Tips for Caregivers

• Always update your details if you move or change phone numbers
• Keep a copy of all documents and receipts
• Reapply or update the medical report if asked by SASSA
• If you stop receiving payments without notice, visit SASSA immediately

Conclusion

The SASSA Care Dependency Grant helps thousands of families who care for children with severe disabilities. It gives financial relief and ensures that the child receives proper care. If you think your child qualifies, do not wait. Visit your nearest SASSA office and apply.

Keep all your documents ready. Follow the rules. Update your records on time. The process can be slow, but it is worth it. The grant can bring peace of mind and support to both the child and the caregiver.

If you need help, contact the SASSA toll-free number: 0800 60 10 11 or visit the official website.

Let SASSA help you take better care of your loved one.