Everything You Need to Know About the Care Dependency Grant

The SASSA Care Dependency Grant provides financial assistance to parents, primary caregivers, or foster parents of children with severe disabilities who require full-time and special care. This grant supports children from birth until they turn 18 years old. Below, we break down everything you need to know about qualifying, applying, and maintaining this vital grant.

What Is the Care Dependency Grant?

The Care Dependency Grant is a monthly financial aid provided by SASSA. It is designed to help adults cover costs related to the special care that children with disabilities require. These funds can help pay for medical expenses, transportation, therapy, or specialized equipment.

The grant is aimed at easing the financial burden on families and ensuring that children with disabilities can receive the necessary care and attention.

Who Qualifies for the Care Dependency Grant?

To be eligible for the Care Dependency Grant, both the caregiver and the child must meet specific criteria:

Caregiver Requirements:

• Must be the parent, primary caregiver, or a court-appointed foster parent.
• Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• Income:
  • If single, your annual income must not exceed R223,200.
  • If married, your combined annual income must not exceed R446,400.
  • Note: These income limits do not apply to foster parents.

Child Requirements:

• Must be under 18 years old.
• Must have a severe disability requiring full-time and special care.
• Cannot be cared for permanently in a state institution.
• Both the child and caregiver must reside in South Africa.

Important Note: A state medical officer must assess the child’s disability before the grant can be approved.

How Much Does the Grant Provide?

The Care Dependency Grant provides R2,180 per month to assist with the care of the child. This amount may be updated by SASSA periodically. Always check with your local SASSA office for the latest payment details.

How to Apply for the Care Dependency Grant

Steps for Applying in Person:

1. Visit a SASSA Office:
   • Go to the SASSA office nearest to your residence.
2. Bring Required Documents:
   • Your identification:
     • 13-digit bar-coded ID.
     • Birth certificate of the child.
     • Temporary ID or proof of application for an ID (if applicable).
     • Additional documents such as a baptismal certificate, clinic card, or school report (if available).
   • Proof of income:
     • Salary slips, bank statements for the past three months, or pension slips.
     • If unemployed, a discharge certificate or proof from the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).
   • Medical report:
     • A medical or assessment report confirming the child’s disability.
   • Proof of caregiver status (if applicable):
     • An affidavit, social worker’s report, or court order indicating your role as the primary caregiver.
3. Complete the Application Form:
   • Fill out the form in the presence of a SASSA officer.
   • Obtain a receipt as proof of your application.
4. State Medical Officer Assessment:
   • The child will be referred for assessment by a state medical officer to confirm eligibility.

Can You Apply Online?

Currently, SASSA does not offer an online application process for the Care Dependency Grant. All applications must be done in person at a SASSA office. However, you can contact SASSA via their toll-free helpline (0800 60 10 11) for guidance.

Processing Time

It may take up to three months to process your application. SASSA will notify you once the application has been approved or if additional documents are required. Regularly check SASSA status to know the progress of your care dependency grant application.

What Happens if Your Application is Denied?

If your application is not approved, you will receive written notification explaining the reason.

Appeals Process:

• You can appeal the decision to the Minister of Social Development at the Department of Social Development’s national office.
• Submit your appeal within 90 days of receiving the rejection notice, explaining why you disagree with the decision.

How to Use the SASSA Care Dependency Grant

The funds can be used for:

• Medical treatments, therapies, or consultations.
• Special equipment like wheelchairs, hearing aids, or assistive devices.
• Transportation for medical appointments or specialized care.
• Everyday needs such as food, clothing, and education for the child.

Make sure the funds are spent on the child’s care to avoid any disputes during reviews.

Payment Options

The grant is disbursed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) using one of the following methods:

1. Cash payments at designated pay points on specific days.
2. Electronic deposits into your bank or Postbank account. (Note: Banking fees may apply.)
3. Payments to institutions acting as administrators of the grant (e.g., welfare organizations).

Note: If you are unable to collect the grant yourself, you can:

• Appoint a procurator at the SASSA office.
• Provide someone with power of attorney to collect the grant on your behalf.

To update your SASSA payment method, refer to changing SASSA banking details guide.

When Is the Grant Reviewed?

SASSA may review the grant periodically based on the caregiver’s declared income. Beneficiaries receiving payments through a bank, institution, or procurator must submit a life certificate annually at SASSA offices.

You will be notified three months in advance if your grant requires a review.

Reasons for Suspension:

The grant may be suspended under the following circumstances:

• Changes in the child’s circumstances.
• Results of a grant review.
• Non-cooperation during a review process.
• Fraud or misrepresentation.
• Errors in the original approval of the grant.

Grant Lapse Conditions:

The grant will lapse if:

• The child passes away.
• The child is placed in a state institution.
• The caregiver does not claim the grant for three consecutive months.
• The child leaves South Africa.
• The child turns 18 years old.

Common Questions About the Care Dependency Grant

Conclusion

The Care Dependency Grant is a lifeline for families caring for children with severe disabilities. By understanding the application process, eligibility criteria, and how to maintain the grant, you can ensure that your child gets the support they need. If you have any questions or face challenges, reach out to SASSA for help. Every step counts in making life easier for your child and family.