SASSA Grant-in-Aid

Last year, I met a gentleman in my neighborhood who was receiving the SASSA Older Persons Grant. He had recently suffered a stroke and struggled with daily activities. He felt frustrated and isolated, unsure how he could manage his care.

When I spoke with him, I told him about the SASSA Grant-in-Aid, a support grant of R560 per month. This grant helps people who already receive a social grant but need extra help from a caregiver. He felt a wave of relief knowing there was help available.

I guided him to apply for the Grant-in-Aid at his local SASSA office. Within a few weeks, he started receiving both the Older Persons Grant and the Grant-in-Aid. The additional support has made a huge difference, allowing him to hire a caregiver and manage daily tasks more comfortably. Today, he feels safer, more independent, and able to enjoy life with dignity.

What is the SASSA Grant-in-Aid?

The SASSA Grant-in-Aid offers extra financial assistance to individuals who are already receiving any of the following social grants:

It is designed for individuals who require full-time care because of physical or mental conditions but cannot afford a caregiver. Eligible recipients receive R560 per month, which can be used to hire someone to provide their care.

How Do I Apply for SASSA Grant-in-Aid?

If you’re already receiving the Old Age Pension, Disability Grant, or War Veterans Grant, and you need full-time care from someone else, you may qualify for the SASSA Grant-in-Aid. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

Step 1: Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office

  • Go to your nearest SASSA office in person to apply. If you’re unable to go due to illness or disability, you can send a trusted family member or friend on your behalf.
  • Make sure they carry a letter from you explaining why you cannot visit the office. The letter should state your medical condition and be signed by you.

Step 2: Bring the Required Documents

When applying, make sure you have the following documents with you:

  • Your 13-digit bar-coded South African ID (original or certified copy)
  • If you’re married, bring:
    • Proof of marriage (marriage certificate)
    • ID of your spouse
  • A medical report or assessment report from a registered doctor that proves you need full-time care.

Note: The medical report must be less than 3 months old.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

  • Once you’re at the SASSA office, request the Grant-in-Aid application form.
  • You must complete the form in the presence of a SASSA officer, who will guide you and ensure everything is filled in correctly.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

  • After completing the form and attaching all required documents, submit your application to the SASSA official.
  • They will process your application and give you a receipt as proof of your submission.

✅ Important: Keep this receipt safe. It’s your proof that the application was submitted.

What Will Happen Next?

SASSA will review your application and inform you of the outcome. If approved, you will begin receiving R560 per month, added to your main grant, to help you pay someone who takes care of you.

What is the Eligibility for the SASSA Grant-in-Aid?

Below is the latest 2026 eligibility criteria.

You Must Already Receive a Main Social Grant:

To be eligible, you must already be getting one of these three grants from SASSA:

  • ✅ Old Age Pension
  • ✅ Disability Grant
  • ✅ War Veterans Grant

The Grant-in-Aid cannot be applied for on its own, it’s an add-on grant to support your current one.

Who Can Apply for the Grant-in-Aid?

The SASSA Grant-in-Aid is for people who:

  • Cannot care for themselves due to illness, disability, or physical/mental limitations.
  • Require daily assistance from another person, such as a family member, caregiver, or nurse.

Medical Proof is Required

To qualify, you must provide:

  • A medical report or assessment from a registered doctor.
  • The report must be recent (less than 3 months old).
  • It must clearly state that you are unable to care for yourself independently.

Residency Conditions

You must be:

  • A South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognized refugee living in South Africa.
  • Able to provide a valid South African ID.

Restrictions on Institutional Residents

You cannot receive the Grant-in-Aid if you live full-time in any state institution, including:

  • Government hospitals
  • State-run care homes
  • Psychiatric facilities
    These places already provide full-time care, so the grant is not applicable.

If Your Application is Declined

A rejection does not mean the end. You have the right to challenge the decision if you believe it was incorrect.

How to Appeal a Declined Application

  • Time Limit: Submit your appeal within 90 days of receiving the rejection notice.
  • Appeal Authority: Your appeal goes to the Minister of Social Development.
  • What to Include:
    • A clear explanation of why the decision should be reconsidered.
    • Updated medical reports or supporting documents.
    • A copy of the rejection letter, if available.

Where to Submit Your Appeal

You can:

  • Visit your nearest SASSA office for assistance with the appeal.
  • Contact the SASSA Call Centre for guidance.

F.A.Q

Can I get the Grant-in-Aid if I don’t have a caregiver?

No, you must have someone to provide full-time care to qualify.

How much does the SASSA Grant-in-Aid pay per month?

Eligible recipients receive R560 per month.

Can I apply for the Grant-in-Aid online?

No, you must apply in person at a SASSA office or send a representative.

Do I need a recent medical report to apply?

Yes, the report must be from a registered doctor and less than 3 months old.

What happens if my Grant-in-Aid application is rejected?

You can appeal the decision within 90 days to the Minister of Social Development.