In South Africa, raising a child with a disability can come with emotional and financial challenges. To help ease the burden, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers several grant options designed specifically to support families caring for children with special needs. These grants provide much-needed financial relief, ensuring that children receive proper care, medical attention, and a better quality of life.
This guide breaks down the different types of SASSA grants available for children with disabilities, including the Care Dependency Grant, Child Support Grant, and Foster Child Grant. It explains who qualifies for each one, outlines the application process, and details the required documentation. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or foster caregiver, knowing your rights and options can make a big difference.
Understanding the grant system can help you maximise the benefits available. From how payments are made to what happens when circumstances change, this article offers a clear and updated overview of the 2025 SASSA disability grant process. It’s a useful starting point for any caregiver looking to access the help they need.
Types of SASSA Grants for Children with Disabilities
1. Care Dependency Grant (CDG)
This grant is for caregivers of children under 18 who are living with severe disabilities and need constant care.
- Monthly Amount: R2,190
- Purpose: To help cover the extra costs associated with full-time caregiving for a disabled child.
2. Child Support Grant (CSG)
While designed for low-income households, this grant also covers children with disabilities under a caregiver’s care.
- Monthly Amount: R500
- Top-Up for Orphans: Additional R250
- Purpose: To support general childcare expenses in low-income situations.
3. Foster Child Grant
This grant supports caregivers who are legally fostering a child with a disability.
- Monthly Amount: R1,120
- Purpose: To provide financial support for foster parents taking care of a disabled child.
Eligibility Criteria
Care Dependency Grant
To qualify, the caregiver must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Be the child’s parent, main caregiver, or foster parent (by court order).
- Pass a means test:
- Single caregivers: Income must not exceed R223,200 annually.
- Married caregivers: Combined income must not exceed R446,400.
- Note: Foster parents are not required to take the means test.
- The child must:
- Be under 18.
- Have a severe disability.
- Not be living full-time in a government institution.
Child Support Grant
To qualify, the caregiver must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Be the child’s primary caregiver.
- Pass a means test:
- Single caregivers: Income must not exceed R52,800 annually.
- Married caregivers: Combined income must not exceed R105,600.
- The child must:
- Be under 18.
- Not be receiving full-time care in a government facility.
Foster Child Grant
To qualify:
- The caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- A legal foster care order must be in place.
- The child must be under 18 and legally placed in the caregiver’s foster care.
Application Process
Here’s how to apply for a SASSA grant for a child with disabilities:
- Visit a SASSA Office:
Go to the nearest SASSA office or mobile service point. - Complete the Application Form:
Fill in the application in the presence of a SASSA officer. - Provide Required Documents:
- Caregiver’s valid ID
- Child’s birth certificate
- Medical report (for Care Dependency Grant)
- Proof of income (for means-tested grants)
- Court order (for Foster Child Grant)
- Collect a Receipt:
This receipt proves that your application has been submitted.
Note: The entire application process is free.
Payment Methods
Once approved, SASSA offers several ways for you to receive the grant:
- Cash Payment: Collect cash at designated SASSA pay points on scheduled days.
- Bank Deposit: Get the money directly into your bank or Postbank account.
- Institutional Payment: For children living in registered care facilities.
- Third-Party Collection: You can authorize someone to collect the grant on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.
Reviews and Suspension
SASSA may review your grant if:
- The child’s medical condition or living arrangements change.
- You fail to respond to a review request.
- Incorrect or misleading information was given in your application.
- The initial approval was made in error.
A grant may be suspended or stopped if:
- The child turns 18.
- The child is admitted to a state institution.
- Either the caregiver or child passes away.
What to Do If Your Application Is Rejected
If SASSA declines your application, they will:
- Notify you in writing with the reason for the decision.
- You can appeal the decision by writing to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days of receiving the rejection notice.
How to Contact SASSA
- Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
SASSA grants for children with disabilities play a vital role in supporting families who face extra responsibilities and financial strain. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or foster caregiver, knowing your options and rights helps ensure that your child receives the care they deserve.
Take the first step by visiting your nearest SASSA office, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. With proper guidance and support, you can secure the assistance your family needs.
