The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) offers various social grants, providing a vital lifeline for many South Africans. This guide simplifies the application process, explains eligibility criteria, and clarifies how Sassa determines who qualifies.
Sassa distributes several different permanent grants to people living in South Africa. These include the Older Persons pension grant, Disability grant, War Veterans grant, Care Dependency grant, Foster Child grant, Child Support grant, Child Support grant Top-Up and Grant-in-aid.
Sassa's Permanent Social Grants
- Older Persons Grant (Old Age Pension): Provides financial support for South African citizens above 60.
- Disability Grant: Supports individuals with disabilities who are unable to work.
- War Veterans Grant: Assists South African war veterans.
- Care Dependency Grant: Supports caregivers of people with severe disabilities.
- Foster Child Grant: Offers financial assistance for those caring for foster children.
- Child Support Grant: Provides financial support for caregivers of children under 18.
- Child Support Grant Top-Up: Increases the Child Support Grant amount for caregivers meeting specific criteria.
- Grant-in-Aid: Assists recipients of other social grants who require help managing their grant money.
Applying for Social Grants
There are two main ways to apply for a Sassa grant
1. Visit Your Local Sassa Branch
- Sassa staff can guide you through the application process and required documents.
- If illness or age prevents you from visiting, you can nominate someone to apply on your behalf.
2. Online Application (for specific grants)
The Sassa website allows online applications for the Child Support Grant, Older Persons Grant, and Disability Grant. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Sassa Services Portal
- Register as a new user.
- Log in with your new credentials.
- Click "Apply For A Grant."
- Choose your desired grant (e.g., Older Persons Grant, Child Support Grant).
- Carefully complete the application form.
- Print and have a Commissioner of Oaths certify the Sassa-generated affidavit.
- Print, sign, and submit the Bank Payment form along with the certified affidavit.
- Upload all required supporting documents in PDF format.
- Submit your application. You'll receive a confirmation email or SMS with a reference number for future inquiries.
Sassa Eligibility Criteria
Sassa uses a means test to assess eligibility for some grants. This involves considering both your income and assets. Here's a breakdown of the current thresholds (as of October 1, 2023):
- Asset Thresholds:
- Older Persons, Disability, War Veterans Grants: Single: R1,247,400, Married: R2,494,800 (These represent the maximum asset value you can own and still qualify).
- Care Dependency Grant: Single Parent/Caregiver: R226,800, Married Parent/Caregiver: R453,600 (No means test applied).
- Income Thresholds:
- Older Persons, Disability, War Veterans Grants: Single: R87,720 per year, Married: R175,440 per year (These represent the maximum annual income you can earn and still qualify).
- Child Support Grant: Single: R55,200 per year, Married: R110,400 per year (Eligibility thresholds based on marital status).
By following this guide and understanding Sassa's eligibility criteria, you can confidently navigate the application process and access the social grant that best suits your needs.
