SASSA Caregiver Grant, Eligibility, Documents & How to apply

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers various grants to support vulnerable individuals and families within the country.

One such grant is the child support grant, which can be beneficial for caregivers looking after children under specific circumstances.

What is the SASSA Caregiver Grant?

The SASSA caregiver grant, also known as the child support grant, is a monthly financial allowance provided to the primary caregiver of a child.

This grant is intended to assist caregivers with the financial burden of raising a child, particularly those facing economic hardship.

Who is Eligible for the SASSA Caregiver Grant?

To be eligible for the SASSA caregiver grant, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Primary Caregiver: You must be the child’s primary caregiver. This could be a parent, grandparent, or even a child over 16 who heads the household.
  2. South African Citizenship/Residency: Both you and the child must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
  3. Income Threshold: Your annual income cannot exceed a specific limit. If you are single, your income must be below R52,800 per year. For married couples, the combined income threshold is R105,600 annually.
  4. Child’s Age: The child you are caring for must be under 18 years old.
  5. Child’s Living Situation: The child cannot be receiving care in a state institution. They must reside with the primary caregiver who is not financially compensated for their care.
  6. Grant Limit: You cannot receive the grant for more than six children who are not your biological or legally adopted children.

Required Documents for the SASSA Caregiver Grant Application

When applying for the SASSA caregiver grant, you will need to submit the following documents:

  1. Your South African ID: Ensure your ID is bar-coded and valid.
  2. Child’s Birth Certificate: This document proves the child’s age and identity.
  3. Proof of Caregiver Status: If you are not the biological parent, you will need documentation to confirm your role as the primary caregiver. This could include an affidavit from a police officer, a social worker’s report, an affidavit from the biological parent, or a letter from the child’s school principal.
  4. Proof of Income (Optional): While not always mandatory, providing proof of income can expedite the application process.
  5. Proof of Marital Status (if applicable): If married, a marriage certificate will be required. If single, an affidavit stating your single status may be necessary.
  6. Proof of Banking Details (Optional): Having your banking details readily available can streamline the grant payment process if you choose electronic deposit.

How to Apply for the SASSA Caregiver Grant

There are two primary ways to apply for the SASSA caregiver grant:

  1. In-Person Application: Visit your nearest SASSA office. SASSA staff will guide you through the application process and assist you in completing the necessary forms.
  2. Online Application: SASSA offers an online application system. You can access the online application portal through the SASSA website. Be sure to have all the required documents scanned and saved electronically before applying online.

How much is the SASSA caregiver grant?

The current SASSA caregiver grant amount is R2 180 per month, with a possible top-up of R260 under specific conditions.

How long does it take to receive the SASSA caregiver grant after applying?

Processing times can vary, but it normally takes between 3-4 months to receive a decision on your application after submitting it.

Can I track the status of my SASSA caregiver grant application?

Yes, you can track the progress of your application by contacting your local SASSA office or by calling the SASSA national toll-free number at 0800 60 10 11.

What happens if my SASSA caregiver grant application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision.

SASSA will provide information on the appeals process at the time of rejection.

Do I need to renew the SASSA caregiver grant?

The SASSA caregiver grant is not automatically renewed.

SASSA will contact you regarding renewal procedures when necessary.