South Africans experiencing financial hardship often turn to the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) for crucial support. Through a variety of targeted grants, SASSA helps the country’s most vulnerable populations. These grants address the unique needs of various groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.
These grants are a fundamental part of South Africa’s social welfare system, designed to reduce poverty and provide essential financial relief. From temporary assistance in emergencies to ongoing support for long-term care, SASSA is dedicated to helping those who need it most. Each grant comes with specific eligibility requirements and benefits, ensuring that assistance is tailored to the needs of individuals and families.
This article will cover the eight primary SASSA grants available in 2025. Whether you’re an elderly citizen, a caregiver, or facing financial challenges, understanding these grants is crucial to accessing the support that can improve your circumstances.
Top 8 SASSA Grants You Should Know About
1. Child Support Grant (CSG)
The Child Support Grant (CSG) provides financial assistance to primary caregivers of children under 18 years old who come from low-income backgrounds. This grant helps caregivers meet the child’s essential needs, such as food, healthcare, and education.
Children are often the most vulnerable members of society, and the CSG aims to break the cycle of poverty by meeting their fundamental needs. Caregivers can use this support to focus on the child’s well-being, reducing the financial burden.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The caregiver must submit the child’s birth certificate.
- Proof of caregiver identity and income is required.
- Documentation showing the caregiver’s relationship with the child must be provided.
- In 2024, caregivers receive R500 per child per month.
2. Old Age Grant
The Old Age Grant, also known as the Pension Grant, provides financial support to senior citizens aged 60 and above. It helps the elderly cover basic expenses like food, housing, and healthcare.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
- A means test based on income and assets is applied.
- Applicants cannot receive other pensions.
In 2024, recipients receive R2,080 per month, with an additional R20 for those aged 75 or older. Payments are made directly to the recipient’s bank account or through pay points.
3. Disability Grant
The Disability Grant is available for individuals aged 18 to 59 who are unable to work due to a disability. It provides financial assistance to ensure that individuals with disabilities can meet their daily needs.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A certified medical report confirming the disability is required.
- Proof of income and assets is needed as part of the means test.
- Identification and proof of residence must be provided.
Recipients currently receive R2,080 per month, which helps cover medical expenses, daily needs, and transportation.
4. Foster Child Grant
Foster parents who care for children placed with them through a court order can apply for the Foster Child Grant. This grant supports foster caregivers in providing the child with necessities like food, healthcare, and education.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Caregivers must submit the child’s court order.
- Identification documents for both the caregiver and the child must be provided.
- Foster parents receive R1,120 per month per foster child.
This grant is vital for fostering children who may have special emotional and financial needs.
5. Grant-in-Aid
The Grant-in-Aid provides additional support to individuals receiving the Old Age or Disability Grant who require full-time care due to their health conditions. This grant helps cover expenses related to caregivers or medical equipment.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must show proof of needing full-time care.
The Grant-in-Aid provides an additional R500 per month, helping ease the financial strain on families providing care.
6. Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
The Social Relief of Distress Grant is a temporary financial aid offered to individuals facing emergencies, such as job loss, natural disasters, or other crises.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must demonstrate financial need.
This grant is designed to provide short-term relief, with eligible individuals receiving R350 per month for a limited period. It serves as a financial lifeline in times of urgent need.
7. War Veterans Grant
The War Veterans Grant recognizes the service of individuals who participated in World War II or the Korean War. It provides financial support to veterans who are in financial distress.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Proof of military service is required.
- Applicants must pass a means test.
Veterans receive R2,100 per month, helping ensure they can live with dignity in their later years.
8. Care Dependency Grant
The Care Dependency Grant is for caregivers of children with severe disabilities. It provides financial assistance to help with the specialized care and treatment these children require.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The child must undergo a medical assessment confirming the disability.
- Caregivers must pass a means test.
This grant provides R2,080 per month, which assists caregivers in meeting the financial needs of children with disabilities.