Temporary vs Permanent SASSA Disability Grants: What’s the Difference?

There are two types of SASSA disability grants: temporary and permanent.

Understanding the difference between these two grants, including when and how each applies, is crucial for those who may need to apply for financial assistance through SASSA.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between temporary and permanent SASSA disability grants, the eligibility criteria for each, how the application process works, and which one might be applicable to different situations.

What are Disability Grants?

Disability grants are provided to help individuals who are unable to support themselves financially due to their disability. This is part of SASSA’s commitment to reducing poverty and providing social protection for vulnerable members of society.

A disability, in this context, refers to a condition that prevents a person from being employed or self-sufficient.

These are social grants offered to South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees who have a physical or mental condition that significantly impacts their ability to work or function independently. SASSA recognizes that people may live with varying levels of disability, from those that may improve over time (temporary) to conditions that are permanent and unlikely to improve.

Related: Can You Qualify for a SASSA Disability Grant While Holding a Part-Time Job?

Now, let’s look at the two types of SASSA disability grants in detail:

Temporary Disability Grant

The temporary disability grant is offered to individuals whose disability is expected to last for a limited time. It is designed to provide short-term financial relief while the individual’s health condition is evaluated or during their treatment period.

Who Qualifies for a Temporary Disability Grant?

To qualify for a temporary disability grant, applicants must meet specific criteria, which include:

• Medical Condition: The individual must have a certified medical condition that makes them unfit to work temporarily. This condition could be due to illness, injury, or any other medical situation that is expected to improve within a specified time frame.
• Duration: The disability must be expected to last between six months and one year. If the condition improves before the end of the grant period, the grant may be discontinued. If the disability persists after the grant period expires, a reapplication or extension might be necessary, subject to a new medical assessment.

Application Process

To apply for a temporary disability grant, the applicant needs to:

1. Medical Assessment: The applicant must undergo a medical examination by a healthcare professional who will confirm the temporary nature of the disability.
2. Submit Documentation: The applicant must submit their South African ID or refugee status documents, along with proof of residency, medical records, and other supporting documents.
3. SASSA Office Visit: Once the required documents are prepared, the individual must visit a SASSA office to apply.
4. Review Process: SASSA reviews the application and supporting documents, and if approved, the grant is paid monthly to the recipient.

Grant Duration and Amount

The temporary disability grant is typically awarded for six to twelve months, depending on the medical assessment. Once the grant period is over, if the individual’s health condition has not improved, they will need to reapply for the grant or undergo another medical assessment.

The grant amount is the same as the permanent disability grant and is subject to periodic adjustments by SASSA. For 2024, the disability grant is around R2090 per month.

Permanent Disability Grant

The permanent disability grant, as the name suggests, is offered to individuals whose disability is permanent and unlikely to improve. This grant provides long-term financial support to those who cannot work due to their medical condition.

Who Qualifies for a Permanent Disability Grant?

To qualify for a permanent disability grant, the criteria include:

• Permanent Disability: The individual must have a permanent physical or mental condition that prevents them from being gainfully employed. This condition must be confirmed by a medical professional.
• No Expected Improvement: The applicant’s condition must be such that no improvement is expected over time. Examples include certain degenerative diseases, chronic conditions, or severe injuries that result in long-term disability.

Application Process

Applying for a permanent disability grant is similar to the temporary grant, but there is a greater emphasis on establishing the permanence of the disability:

1. Medical Assessment: As with the temporary grant, a thorough medical examination by a healthcare provider is required to confirm the disability’s permanent nature.
2. Supporting Documents: Applicants must provide their ID, proof of residency, and medical records that detail the permanent disability.
3. Visit a SASSA Office: Applications must be submitted in person at a SASSA office, where staff will assist with the application process.
4. Application Review: SASSA will evaluate the application, and if approved, the individual will begin receiving a monthly grant.

Grant Duration and Amount

While the term “permanent” implies that the grant lasts indefinitely, it is subject to periodic reviews by SASSA to ensure that the recipient continues to qualify. However, unlike the temporary grant, individuals with permanent disabilities are less likely to need frequent re-evaluations.

The grant amount is the same as the temporary grant, currently set at R2090 per month (2024 rates). This amount is reviewed and adjusted periodically to keep up with inflation.

Key Differences Between Temporary and Permanent Disability Grants

Although both types of disability grants offer financial support, the key differences lie in the duration, medical conditions, and reapplication requirements. Here’s a summary:

Related: Simplifying the SASSA Disability Grant Assessment Process

When to Apply for Which Grant?

Choosing between a temporary and permanent disability grant depends on the nature of your disability. If your condition is expected to improve, or if you’re undergoing treatment that could restore your ability to work, the temporary disability grant would be appropriate.

However, if you have a permanent condition such as a severe injury, a chronic illness, or a congenital disability that significantly impacts your ability to work, the permanent disability grant is the correct option.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your condition and provide the necessary documentation for SASSA.

Important Considerations for Applicants

When applying for either type of grant, it’s essential to prepare the required documentation and understand the application process. Here are a few tips:

1. Medical Evidence: Ensure that your medical records are up-to-date and provide clear evidence of your disability. SASSA will rely heavily on medical reports when making their decision.
2. Keep Contact Information Updated: SASSA might contact you for updates on your application or for re-evaluation. Make sure your contact details are always correct.
3. Seek Legal Assistance If Denied: If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Consult a legal advisor or contact SASSA for guidance on how to proceed with an appeal.
4. Regular Reviews: Even if you qualify for a permanent grant, be prepared for periodic reviews of your disability status by SASSA.

The distinction between temporary and permanent SASSA disability grants lies in the nature and expected duration of the disability. Temporary grants provide short-term relief for disabilities that are expected to improve, while permanent grants offer long-term financial support for individuals with irreversible conditions.

If you’re considering applying for a SASSA disability grant, it’s crucial to understand which type best fits your situation and ensure that your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays in receiving support.