In South Africa, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides financial assistance to families caring for children with disabilities. These SASSA grants for children with disabilities aim to reduce the financial burden on caregivers, ensuring that children with special needs receive the necessary care and support.
This guide outlines the types of grants available, eligibility requirements, application processes, and more.
Types of SASSA Grants for Children with Disabilities
1. Care Dependency Grant (CDG)
The Care Dependency Grant is for caregivers of children under 18 years who have severe disabilities that require full-time and permanent care. The grant amount is R2,190 per month.
2. Child Support Grant (CSG)
The Child Support Grant, mainly for low-income families, also covers caregivers of children with disabilities. As of now, the grant amount is R500 per month. Orphaned children can receive a top-up of R250.
3. Foster Child Grant
This grant is for caregivers who have legally fostered a child with a disability. The monthly amount is R1,120.
Eligibility Criteria
Care Dependency Grant
To qualify:
Caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee and must be the child’s parent, primary caregiver, or court-appointed foster parent.
Must pass a means test:
Single caregivers: annual income must not exceed R223,200.
Married caregivers: combined income must not exceed R446,400.
Foster parents are exempt from the means test.
Child must be under 18 years, severely disabled, and not living full-time in a government institution.
Child Support Grant
To qualify:
Caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee, and the primary caregiver.
Must pass a means test:
Single caregivers: income must not exceed R52,800 annually.
Married couples: income must not exceed R105,600.
Child must be under 18 years and not receiving care in a state institution.
Foster Child Grant
To qualify:
Caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee and have a court order for the foster child.
Child must be under 18 and legally placed in foster care.
Learn More: Adding a Dependent for SASSA Grant-in-Aid Made Easy
Application Process
To apply for any of the SASSA grants for children with disabilities:
Visit a SASSA Office: Head to the nearest SASSA office or mobile service point.
Complete the Application: Fill out the form in front of a SASSA officer.
Submit the Required Documents:
Caregiver’s ID
Child’s birth certificate
Medical report (for Care Dependency Grant)
Proof of income (for means test)
Court order (for Foster Child Grant)
Receive a Receipt: Keep this as proof that you applied.
The application process is free.
Payment Methods
SASSA offers various ways to receive the grant:
Cash Payments: At pay points on set days.
Electronic Payments: Direct deposit to your bank or Postbank account.
Institutional Payments: For children in registered care homes.
If you’re unable to collect the grant, you may authorize someone to collect it on your behalf.
Review and Suspension
Grants may be reviewed if:
The child’s condition or living situation changes.
You fail to respond to a review request.
Fraud or misinformation is discovered.
The original approval was incorrect.
Grants may lapse if:
The child turns 18.
The child is placed in a state institution.
The child or caregiver passes away.
Appeals
If your application is rejected:
SASSA will notify you in writing with the reason.
You may appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days.
Contact SASSA
Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
Website: www.sassa.gov.za
Accessing SASSA grants for children with disabilities can provide vital financial support to families who face the extra challenges of caring for a child with special needs.
Understanding the types of grants available, meeting the eligibility criteria, and knowing how to apply can make a significant difference in securing this assistance. Whether it’s the Care Dependency Grant, Child Support Grant, or Foster Child Grant, these programs are designed to help ease the financial strain and improve the quality of life for both the child and their caregiver.
If you believe your family qualifies, do not hesitate to reach out to SASSA or visit a local office to start your application. Support is available, and with the right information, you can make sure your child receives the care they deserve.
