The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides financial relief to millions of South Africans facing economic challenges. In 2025, several grants remain available to assist elderly individuals, disabled persons, children, war veterans, and unemployed citizens.
Here’s a detailed overview of the top 8 SASSA grants South Africans can apply for in 2025.
Who Qualifies for the SASSA Old Age Grant?
The SASSA Old Age Grant is designed for senior citizens who require financial assistance after retirement. In 2025, the grant amount has been increased to offer more relief.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Must be 60 years or older.
- Cannot receive another social grant in their own name.
- Must pass the means test (assessing income and assets).
How Does the SASSA Disability Grant Support South Africans?
The SASSA Disability Grant is for individuals unable to work due to permanent disability. This grant helps cover basic living expenses and medical needs.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must submit a medical assessment report confirming permanent disability.
- Must be between 18 and 59 years old.
- Must pass the means test to prove financial need.
Who Can Apply for the SASSA Child Support Grant?
The Child Support Grant provides financial aid to low-income families struggling to support their children. It is paid per child to the legal caregiver.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The caregiver must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- The child must be under 18 years old.
- The caregiver must earn below the set income threshold.
How Does the Foster Child Grant Work?
The Foster Child Grant supports caregivers looking after children placed in their custody through a court order.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A valid court order confirming foster care must be in place.
- The child must be under 18 years old.
What Is the Care Dependency Grant & Who Qualifies?
The Care Dependency Grant assists caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require full-time care.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A medical report must confirm the child’s disability.
- The caregiver must pass the means test.
- The child must be under 18 years old.
What Is the SASSA Grant-in-Aid & Who Can Apply?
The Grant-in-Aid is an additional grant given to recipients of the Old Age or Disability Grant who require full-time care.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must already be receiving an Old Age or Disability Grant.
- Must require full-time care due to illness or disability.
READ MORE: 2025 SASSA Payment Increase – Who Qualifies & How Much Will You Get?
Who Qualifies for the War Veterans Grant?
The War Veterans Grant is for former soldiers who participated in the Second World War or the Korean War and require financial aid.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a former soldier who served in World War II or the Korean War.
- Must pass the means test.
Is the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant Available in 2025?
Yes! The SRD R350 Grant has been extended into 2025 to provide temporary support for unemployed South Africans.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be unemployed and financially struggling.
- Must not receive any other social grant.
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or asylum seeker.
How Can You Apply for a SASSA Grant in 2025?
Applying for a SASSA grant is simple and can be done through the following methods:
1. Online Application
- Visit the official SASSA website.
- Click on “Apply for a Grant”.
- Complete the application form and submit the required documents.
2. Apply at a SASSA Office
- Visit your nearest SASSA office.
- Bring the necessary documents (ID, proof of income, medical reports if applicable).
- Complete the application form with the help of an official.
FAQs
Can I receive more than one SASSA grant at the same time?
Yes, but only specific grants can be combined. For example, a child support grant can be received while collecting an Old Age or Disability Grant.
How long does it take for a SASSA grant application to be approved?
The approval process usually takes up to three months, and payments are backdated to the application date.
Do I need to renew my SASSA grant every year?
Some grants require annual reviews, especially those based on income (means test). Others, like the Old Age Grant, continue unless the recipient’s status changes.
What happens if my SASSA application is rejected?
You can appeal the decision through the SASSA website or at your local SASSA office within 90 days of rejection.
Can foreigners apply for SASSA grants?
Only South African citizens, permanent residents, and recognized refugees qualify for SASSA grants.
Is the SRD grant permanent?
No, the SRD R350 grant is temporary and may be extended depending on government funding.
Can I check my SASSA grant status online?
Yes, visit www.sassa.gov.za and enter your ID number to check your status.
What should I do if I don’t receive my SASSA payment?
If your payment is delayed, contact SASSA’s helpline at 0800 60 10 11 or visit a local SASSA office.
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