SASSA Care Dependency Grant [Another Chance ]

Life’s hectic pace often leaves you racing to secure support for loved ones with special needs. Waiting for the SASSA Care Dependency Grant can cause desperation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the application process. 

This guide is your compass to navigate the intricacies of the Care Dependency Grant. It covers eligibility, applications, and payments, ensuring you or your loved ones receive support efficiently. 

Let’s dive in so you can provide the essential care your family deserves.

What is the SASSA Care Dependency Grant? 

The SASSA care dependency grant is a financial aid provided to parents, guardians, foster parents, and custodians who are responsible for the care of children with severe disabilities. 

This grant ensures that children with disabilities receive the necessary support and care to live fulfilling lives. It covers the costs associated with their full-time care and special needs. 

How much is the caregiver amount grant?

The caregiver amount grant, or the care dependency grant, provides financial assistance to eligible individuals. As of October 1, 2023, the grant amount has been increased to R2,090 monthly.

It’s important to note that the grant amount is calculated on a sliding scale, and individuals with higher private income may not be considered eligible. 

Additionally, if your bank account balance exceeds R1,080, your grant application may be declined for that month. 

How long is the care dependency grant?

The care dependency grant is provided from birth until the child turns 18. It ensures that children with severe disabilities receive the necessary support and care throughout their formative years. 

Eligibility criteria for the care dependency grant

Applicants will qualify for eligibility criteria to get the SASSA care dependency grant.

1. You must be a parent, primary caregiver, or court-appointed foster parent.

2. You should be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee living in South Africa.

3. Eligibility depends on income, with specific limits.

4. The child should be under 18 years old.

5. The child must have a severe disability requiring full-time specialized care, verified by a state medical officer.

6. The child should not be permanently cared for in a state institution.

Is a means test necessary? 

A means test is necessary to determine eligibility for the SASSA care dependency grant. 

The means test assesses the applicant’s and their spouse’s income (if applicable) to ensure that the grant is provided to those who truly need it.

The income limits for eligibility vary based on marital status, with different thresholds for single individuals and married couples. However, it’s important to note that foster parents are exempt from the means test. 

Needed documents for the SASSA care dependency grant

Certain documents are required to support your application for the SASSA care dependency grant. The necessary documents include: 

For the biological parent: 

For biological parents, you will need:

•  Valid South African ID.
• Child’s birth certificate.
•  Road to health clinic card.
• Child’s school report (if applicable).
• A medical report confirming the child’s disability.
• Proof of marital status (marriage certificate or divorce decree).
• Proof of income (payslips, bank statements, or employment contract).

For non-biological parents:

• Proof of primary caregiver status (affidavit, social worker’s report, or school principal’s letter).
• Foster parent court order (if applicable).
• Valid South African ID.
• Child’s birth certificate.
• A medical report confirming the child’s disability.
• Child’s school report (if available).
• Proof of marital status (if applicable).

How do you apply for the SASSA care dependency grant?

Applying for the SASSA care dependency grant can be done offline and online. Here’s a step-by-step guide for each application method: 

Offline application: 

1. Visit your nearest office: Locate the nearest SASSA office. 

2. Collect the application form: Obtain the SASSA care dependency grant application form from the office. 

3. Completing Form: Fill out the application form accurately and provide all the required information. 

4. Gather supporting documents: Compile all the supporting documents mentioned earlier. 

5. Submit the application: Submit the completed application form and supporting documents to the SASSA office. 

6. Application review: The SASSA office will review your application and cross-check your eligibility for the grant. 

7. Approval notification: If your application is approved, you will receive a notification confirming the grant. 

Online application: 

1. Go to the official SASSA website. 

2. Find the online application portal for the care dependency grant. 

3. Create an account by adding the necessary details. 

4. Fill out the online application form accurately. 

5. As mentioned earlier, Scan and upload all the required supporting documents. 

6. Submit the completed online application along with the uploaded documents. 

7. The SASSA office will review your online application and assess your eligibility for the grant. 

8. You will receive a notification confirming the grant if your application is approved.

How long does it take to approve the SASSA care dependency grant? 

The processing time for the SASSA care dependency grant can vary. It may take several weeks to months before a decision is reached on your application. 

The assessment process includes reviewing your eligibility, verifying supporting documents, and conducting a medical assessment of the child’s disability.

It’s important to be patient and wait for the official notification from SASSA regarding the status of your application. 

What to do if the SASSA care dependency grant is approved?

Assuming your application for the SASSA care dependency grant is approved, there are a few important steps to take:

•  Review the grant details provided in the approval notification to ensure accuracy. 
• SASSA offers various payment methods, such as cash at a designated pay point, electronic deposit into your bank account, or payment through an institution not funded by the state. Choose the payment method that is easy for you. 
•  Keep track of the grant payment dates to ensure timely receipt of the monthly grant amount. SASSA disburses payments in batches, and different beneficiary groups receive their grants on specific dates. 
•  Use the grant amount to meet the full-time care and special needs requirements of the disabled child. 

What to do if the SASSA care dependency grant is not approved? 

Should your application for the SASSA care dependency grant be declined, you will receive written notification from the office. The notification will explain the reasons behind the rejection. 

However, you can appeal the decision within 90 days of receiving the notification. You need to submit a written appeal to the Minister of Social Development, explaining your disagreement and providing supporting evidence for reconsidering the decision. 

Payment options for the SASSA care dependency grant 

The SASSA care dependency grant can be paid through different methods, including: 

• Cash at a specific pay point on a designated day: Beneficiaries can collect the grant amount in cash at a designated SASSA pay point on a specific day. 
• Direct deposition: If you have a bank account, SASSA can deposit the grant amount directly into your account. It provides a convenient and secure way to receive the grant. 
• Payment through an institution not funded by the State: In some cases, the care dependency grant can be paid through an institution that provides care for individuals with disabilities. This option may be suitable for those who do not have a bank account.

How do I change the payment method?

If you want to change your payment method for the SASSA care dependency grant, you can contact the SASSA directly.

They will guide you through the necessary steps to switch your payment method to one that better suits your needs. 

How do you check your SASSA care dependency grant balance? 

To check the balance of your SASSA care dependency grant, you can utilize the following methods:

• Use your SASSA card at an ATM to check your grant balance. 
• Call the toll-free helpline and inquire about your grant balance. 
• Visit the SASSA online portal and log in to your account to check your grant balance. 

When can your SASSA care dependency grant be suspended? 

Your SASSA care dependency grant may be suspended under certain circumstances, including: 

• Changes in your circumstances (e.g., increased income or caregiving changes).
•  The outcome of the SASSA review led to ineligibility.
•  Failure to cooperate during the review process.
•  Fraudulent behavior or misrepresentation.
• Mistakes in grant approval.
•  Beneficiary’s passing away.
• Admission to a state institution.
• Failure to claim for three consecutive months.
• Extended absence from the country. 

Payment dates for the care dependency grant

SASSA disburses the care dependency grant payments in batches, and different beneficiary groups receive their grants on specific dates.

To check the payment dates for the care dependency grant, visit the SASSA website and refer to the latest payment schedule.

By staying updated on the payment dates, you can ensure that you receive the grant amount promptly. 

Benefits of the SASSA Care Dependency Grant

The SASSA care dependency grant provides numerous benefits and has a significant impact on the lives of families with children with disabilities. Some of the key benefits include: 

• Financial support for full-time care and special needs.
• Access to crucial resources like medical equipment and therapy.
• Enhanced quality of life for both the child and their family.
• Relief from the financial problems of caring for your child with disabilities.
• Encouragement of social inclusion and equal opportunities.

Grant review  

Periodically, SASSA conducts reviews of the care dependency grant to ensure that it is being provided to those who truly need it. During the review process, SASSA may request updated information and supporting documents to assess continued eligibility.

It’s important to cooperate with SASSA during the review process and provide the requested information on time. 

Conclusion

The SASSA care dependency grant is vital in supporting families caring for children with severe disabilities. It provides financial assistance and access to necessary resources and improves the quality of life for the child and their family. 

By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, payment options, and other aspects of the grant, families can ensure that they receive the support they need to care for their children.