SASSA Care Dependency Grant 2025

Caring for a child with a severe disability is a full-time responsibility that comes with emotional and financial challenges. Recognizing this, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers the Care Dependency Grant—a form of social assistance for parents, primary caregivers, or foster parents of children under the age of 18 who require full-time care due to a permanent disability. This grant is designed to help alleviate the financial burden of providing essential care, from medical needs to everyday expenses, ensuring that children with disabilities receive the support they need to live with dignity.

SASSA Care Dependency Grant for Adults

SASSA is an agency in South Africa that is responsible for providing much-needed financial assistance to vulnerable citizens. The agency achieves this by providing different categories of grants. One of them is the Care Dependency Grant that is provided for parents, primary care givers, or foster parents of children with severe disabilities requiring full time care up to the age of 18. This grant is designed to provide financial support to families caring for children with disabilities, helping them to meet the costs of providing full-time care including clothing, feeding, and access to healthcare. The grant amount is R1280 per month and payments can be made in cash at designated pay points or electronically into a bank account.

Who can apply for a care dependency grant? 

To be eligible for the care dependency grant, the parents, primary caregiver, or foster parents and the child must be: 

• South African citizens, permanent residents or refugees
• Must reside in South Africa at the time of application 
• In possession of a medical/assessment report confirming disability 
• Qualify in terms of the means test for the care dependency grant (income must be less than R18600 per month if single, and R37200 per month if married)
• Must be under 18 years old and have a severe disability requiring full time care 

A child with severe disabilities will not receive the Care Dependency Grant if the child is being cared for on a 24-hour basis for more than 6 months in an institution funded by the government such as a special care center.

Also Check: How do I Apply for SASSA Elderly Caregiver Grant?

How to Apply for a Care Dependency Grant?

To apply for the care dependency grant, the following documents are required: 

• Bar coded ID of the parent, primary caregiver or foster parents 
• Child’s birth certificate with identity number 
• A medical report for the child that states what the child is able to do
• If you are a foster parent, a court order declaring you as the foster parent
• Proof of marital status such as a marriage certificate, death certificate of spouse, or divorce papers 
• Proof of income 

To apply: 

• Gather the necessary supporting documents 
• Visit your nearest SASSA office 
• Complete the application form 
• Submit the application

Also Check: SASSA SRD Grant Increased to R400

Conclusion 

The SASSA Care Dependency Grant is a vital source of support for families caring for children with severe disabilities. By understanding the eligibility requirements, preparing the necessary documentation, and following the correct application steps, caregivers can access much-needed financial assistance. If you are unsure about any part of the process, SASSA offices are available to provide guidance and support. Ensuring that your child receives the care they need shouldn’t be a financial struggle—and this grant exists to help make that possible.