SASSA Care Dependency Grant

If you’re caring for a child in South Africa who has a severe mental or physical disability, the SASSA Care Dependency Grant can help. This grant provides R2,090 per month to support the child’s needs.

Whether you’re a parent, foster parent, or caregiver, this grant is designed to ease the financial challenges that come with caring for a child with special needs. It ensures that these children get the care and support they deserve.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what the Care Dependency Grant is, who qualifies, how to apply, and how it makes a difference in the lives of families like yours.

The Eligibility Criteria For Care Dependency Grant in 2024

To qualify for the Care Dependency Grant, you need to meet the following conditions:

  • You must be a South African citizen, recognized refugee, or have permanent residency.
  • You should be a parent, legal caregiver, or foster parent of a child under 18 years old.
  • The child should not be in long-term care at a state institution.
  • Both you and the child must live in South Africa.
  • You’ll need to show proof that the child has a severe disability and is being cared for at home full-time.
  • You and your spouse (if you’re married) must pass a means test.
  • If single, your income should not exceed R249,600 per year (R20,800 per month). If married, the combined income should not be more than R499,200 per year (R41,600 per month). Foster parents are not subject to the means test.

What are the Requirements for the Means Test of SASSA Care Dependency Grant?

The SASSA means test is a way to check the income of those applying for the Care Dependency Grant to make sure that only those who really need it get the support. If you’re single, your annual income should be R249,600 or less to pass the means test. If you’re married, your combined income with your spouse should be R499,200 or less.

Foster parents don’t have to go through the means test, so they can apply for the Care Dependency Grant without worrying about income limits. If you’re already getting a foster child grant and your child has a severe disability, you can also apply for the Care Dependency Grant.

Keep in mind that each type of grant has its own criteria for determining financial eligibility.

How to Apply for the SASSA Care Dependency Grant?

You can apply for the Care Dependency Grant in two ways: either online through the website or by visiting a SASSA office.

Apply SASSA Care Dependency Grant Online

Applying for the Care Dependency Grant online is a quick and easy option if you have internet access. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Visit the SASSA website: Go to the official South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) website using a computer, tablet, or smartphone with an internet connection.
  2. Register: If you’re applying for the first time, you’ll need to create an account on the website.
  3. Start the application: Look for the section dedicated to social grants and find the option to apply for the Care Dependency Grant.
  4. Complete the application: Fill in the application form with accurate details about your child’s disability and your financial situation.
  5. Upload supporting documents: Upload clear photos or scans of the necessary documents, like your ID, your child’s medical certificates, and proof of income.
  6. Review and submit: Double-check all the information you’ve entered. Once everything looks good, submit your application.
  7. Confirmation: After submitting, you’ll receive a confirmation that your application has been received. Make sure to keep this confirmation for your records.

Apply SASSA Care Dependency Grant Via SASSA Offices:

If you’d rather apply in person or don’t have internet access, you can visit your nearest SASSA office. Here’s what to do:

  • Find a SASSA office: Locate the nearest SASSA office to your home. You can find the addresses and contact information on the SASSA website.
  • Visit the office: Go to the SASSA office during their operating hours. Make sure to bring your ID, your child’s medical certificates, and proof of income.
  • Request an application form: Once there, ask for the Care Dependency Grant application form.
  • Complete the form: Fill out the form carefully. If you need help, don’t hesitate to ask the SASSA staff for assistance.
  • Submit the application: Hand in the completed form along with your supporting documents to the SASSA staff. They’ll guide you through the submission process.
  • Confirmation: After submitting, you should receive a receipt or confirmation. Keep this as proof that you’ve applied.

Required Documents for Applying SASSA Care Dependency Grant?

  • Parent’s or caregiver’s ID documents: If you don’t have these, submit an affidavit.
  • Foster parents: Provide the court order that confirms your caregiver status.
  • Medical or Assessment Report: Submit a report from a doctor confirming that your child is severely disabled and requires personal care.
  • Proof of income: This can include your payslip, pension slip, or UIF card.
  • Marital status: Provide proof if you are married, divorced, or widowed.
  • Sworn statement or affidavit: Submit this to confirm your details and the information you’ve provided.

How much is the SASSA Care Dependency Grant Amount?

As of April 1, 2024, each eligible child will receive R2,180 per month through the Care Dependency Grant. This amount will increase to R2,190 per child per month starting October 1, 2024.

Processing Time for the Application of the SASSA Care Dependency Grant

The processing time for a Care Dependency Grant application can take up to 3 months. Once your application is processed and approved, you’ll receive back payments from the date you submitted your application. If your application is not approved, SASSA will send you a letter explaining why and provide instructions on how to appeal the decision.

SASSA Care Dependency Grant Status Check

After submitting your application, you can track its progress by doing a SASSA Status Check to see if it’s been approved, declined, or to find out its current status. Once your application is approved, it’s important to regularly check the status of your grant payments and their dates to stay updated. You can check the status of your SASSA Care Dependency Grant through the following methods:

 What to do next if SASSA Care Dependency Grant Application is not Accepted?

If your grant application is rejected and you believe it was a mistake, you can ask SASSA to review your application again. If that request is also denied and you still disagree with the decision, you have the right to appeal to the Ministry of Social Development at the National Department of Social Development. You must start the appeal process within 90 days of getting the rejection notice.

The Ministry of Social Development will look over your appeal and make a decision. If they agree with you, they will change SASSA’s decision, and you’ll start receiving your grant payments. If your appeal is denied, you will get a written explanation of their decision.

SASSA Care Dependency Grant Balance Check

The SASSA balance check service lets you see how much money is left in your grant. Keeping track of your balance helps you manage your finances and make smart decisions about your grant money. Once your Care Dependency Grant application is approved and you start receiving payments, you should check your balance regularly using these methods:

  • Dial the USSD code 1203210# or 12069277# on your cellphone.
  • Check at any ATM (standard bank charges may apply).
  • Use the SASSA WhatsApp number at 082 046 8553.
  • Call the SASSA toll-free number at 0800 601 011.

Contact SASSA

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