The SASSA Caregiver Grant for Adults, also known as Grant-in-Aid, is specifically designed to support individuals in South Africa who are already receiving a social fund (Older Person’s Grant, Disability Grant, or War Veterans Grant) but require additional financial assistance to afford a full-time caregiver.

This grant helps beneficiaries pay someone who assists them with essential daily tasks, such as bathing, laundry, cleaning, or other routine activities. To qualify for the Grants-in-Aid, applicants must submit a valid medical report confirming their need for continuous personal care due to a physical or mental condition.

Eligibility Criteria of SASSA Caregiver Grant for Adults

Since Grant-in-Aid is the additional financial support for SASSA beneficiaries, its eligibility requirements are the same as those of the main grant the recipient is already receiving. Below are the general criteria to qualify for the SASSA Caregiver or Care Dependency Grant:

  • You must be a South African resident or a refugee.

  • You must be already receiving a SASSA grant for Older Persons, War Veterans, or Disability.

  • You must have some physical or mental disability, making it difficult for you to take care of yourself.

  • You must have a medical report claiming you are medically unfit.

  • You must pass the Means Test.

  • You must not be cared for in any state institution or nursing home that receives a subsidy from the government to take care of you.

Application Procedure for SASSA Caregiver Grant

To apply for the Care Dependency Grant through SASSA, follow these simple steps:

  1. Visit your nearest South African Social Security Agency or SASSA regional office to get the SASSA Caregiver Grant for adults application form. You can also download the form online here.

  2. Fill out the form with your accurate details, including your name, Identity Document Number (ID), residential address with postal code, and contact details.

  3. If the applicant is elderly or has a disability that prevents him from visiting the office in person, a family member or trusted representative may apply on his behalf.

  4. Attach the following documents with the filled application form:

  • A valid South African Identity Document (ID Card)

  • A Medical Report (not older than 3 months) confirming the applicant’s disability.

  • Marriage Certificate if you’re married

  • Divorce order if you’re divorced.

  • The Death Certificate if your spouse is dead.

  1. The SASSA officer may conduct a brief interview to verify key details and ensure eligibility. 

  2. Submit your application along with the required documents to the SASSA office. After submission, you will be provided a stamped receipt as proof of application.

How Long Does it Take to Get Your Application Approved?

Typically, application processing procedures may take around three months to complete. Sometimes, the duration may vary based on the staff’s workload and verification process. Once your application gets approved, your next grant payment will be deposited into your account from the date on which you’va applied.

What to do If SASSA Reject my Caregiver Grant Application?

If your grant application is not approved, SASSA will have to inform you in writing, stating the specific reason for the rejection. However, if you disagree with their decision, you have the right to file an appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days of receiving the rejection notification.

Can Grant-in-Aid Be Cancelled?

Yes, the Grant in Aid or SASSA Caregiver grant for adults can be cancelled under certain conditions. It is important to understand that this grant relates to certain eligibility criteria, so it may be discontinued for the following reasons:

  • If the grant beneficiary passes away, the grant is automatically cancelled as it intends to provide care to the living individual.

  • SASSA regularly monitors the financial situation of the grant recipient. If the income status of assets exceeds the threshold level set for the Means Test, you will no longer qualify for the grant, and it may be cancelled.

  • The Grant-in-Aid is intended for individuals who need full-time care of another person due to physical or mental disability. If you recover or no longer need someone else for daily care, the grant may be cancelled.

How to Get the Caregiver Grant Payment?

Once your application for the SASSA Caregiver Grant for adults is approved, the next step is to select how you want to receive your grant payment. SASSA offers multiple payment options to ensure beneficiaries can access their funds according to their ease. 

Cash Payment

One of the most commonly used methods is getting your grant money in cash. You can visit your nearest SASSA Pay Point on designated days to get the money. This method is specifically helpful for those who don’t have bank accounts.

Direct Bank Deposit

Beneficiaries can also request SASSA to receive their money directly into their bank accounts. This is one of the most secure and easiest ways to withdraw your funds. However, some individuals may find it hectic to visit the bank each month, especially if they are unwell or have tight schedules.

Payment through Postbank

Postbank offers a modern and secure alternative for receiving SASSA grants. With this method, you can withdraw your grant fund from anywhere, including ATMs or SASSA-partnered retail outlets.

Collecting Funds through a Third–Party Administrator

The South African Social Security Agency sometimes also allows a third-party institution or welfare organization to receive the grant payment on behalf of the beneficiary. This option is especially suitable for those beneficiaries who can’t manage to get their payments due to disability or health-related problems.

Fund Receiving Through a Procurator

If you’re unable to receive your payments by yourself due to old age or any health concerns, you can appoint a procurator in the SASSA office to collect your funds. You can also give someone power of attorney to receive your payments on your behalf.

How Much is the SASSA Caregiver Grant for Adults?

The SASSA Grant-in-Aid also known as Caregiver Grant for adults provides beneficiaries with R560 per month. This amount is subjected to periodic adjustments as per the inflation rate and yearly budget.

It is important to note that the Caregiver Grant is an additional benefit and is paid alongside the main social grant. It intends to cover the cost of hiring a caregiver to assist with daily activities, such as bathing, feeding, and mobility.