The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) continues to support vulnerable citizens by providing financial assistance through various grants.
In 2025, several key grants have been updated to help children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and those in financial distress. knowing these grants can help individuals secure the support they need.
Let’s look into the 8 key SASSA grants for 2025, their benefits, eligibility requirements, and the application process.
SASSA Grants
Below is a summary of the key grants, their monthly payouts, and main eligibility criteria:
Grant Name | Monthly Amount (2025) | Key Eligibility Criteria |
---|---|---|
Child Support Grant | R510 | Primary caregiver of a child under 18; household income test. |
Older Person’s Grant | Up to R2,080 | Aged 60+; income and asset limits apply. |
Disability Grant | Up to R2,080 | Permanently disabled; medical assessment required. |
Foster Child Grant | R1,120 | Caregiver of a child placed in foster care by court order. |
Grant-in-Aid | R510 | Receiving another grant and needing full-time care. |
Care Dependency Grant | Up to R2,080 | Caregiver of a disabled child requiring permanent care. |
War Veteran’s Grant | Up to R2,100 | Served in WW2 or Korean War; age or disability criteria. |
Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant | R350 | Temporary financial aid for unemployed individuals. |
Now, let’s dive deeper into each grant.
Child Support Grant
This grant assists low-income families in caring for children under 18. Beneficiaries receive R510 per month per child.
Eligibility:
- The caregiver must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- The household income must meet SASSA’s means test.
- Required documents:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Proof of income and caregiver status
- Apply at your nearest SASSA office or online via the SASSA website.
This grant helps ensure children receive proper nutrition, healthcare, and education.
Older Person’s Grant (Pension Grant)
South Africans aged 60 or older can receive this grant, with payments up to R2,080 per month. Those over 75 receive an extra R20.
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen or permanent resident.
- Income should not exceed R86,280 (single) or R172,560 (married) per year.
- Cannot receive another social grant (except for Grant-in-Aid).
This grant helps elderly citizens cover daily expenses, medical costs, and housing.
Disability Grant
The Disability Grant provides up to R2,080 per month for individuals who cannot work due to permanent disability.
Eligibility:
- Must be 18-59 years old.
- A certified medical assessment confirming permanent disability.
- Income and asset limits apply.
This grant supports disabled individuals in covering medical expenses, transport, and daily living costs.
Foster Child Grant
Foster caregivers receive R1,120 per month per child to help care for children placed in their custody through a court order.
Application Process:
- Submit the court order confirming foster care.
- Provide the child’s birth certificate and caregiver’s ID.
This grant ensures that foster children receive proper education, healthcare, and living conditions.
Grant-in-Aid
This grant provides R510 per month for individuals already receiving a SASSA grant who need full-time care due to a physical or mental condition.
Eligibility:
- Must already be receiving another SASSA grant (e.g., Old Age, Disability).
- A medical report proving the need for daily assistance.
It helps caregivers support individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities.
Care Dependency Grant
Caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require full-time care receive up to R2,080 per month.
Requirements:
- A medical assessment confirming the disability.
- The caregiver must meet SASSA’s income means test.
This grant helps families cover medical costs and specialized care.
War Veteran’s Grant
This grant provides up to R2,100 per month for individuals who served in World War II or the Korean War.
Eligibility:
- Must be older than 60 or disabled.
- Proof of military service.
It ensures war veterans receive financial support and dignity in their later years.
Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
The SRD Grant, introduced during COVID-19, continues in 2025 to assist unemployed individuals in financial distress. It provides R350 per month.
How to Apply:
- Submit proof of unemployment or financial need.
- Apply online via the SRD portal.
This grant provides temporary relief for those struggling to afford basic needs like food and shelter.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Child Support Grant?
Primary caregivers of children under 18 who meet the income test.
What is the maximum amount for the Older Person’s Grant?
Up to R2,080 per month, with an extra R20 for those over 75.
How much is the Social Relief of Distress Grant?
The SRD Grant provides R350 per month to unemployed individuals.
What is needed to apply for a Disability Grant?
A certified medical assessment confirming permanent disability.
Can I apply for the Foster Child Grant online?
No, applications must be submitted at a SASSA office with the court order.