SASSA Grant-in-Aid

Last year, one of my elderly neighbors, a kind woman receiving the SASSA Older Persons Grant, was struggling to care for herself due to age and disability. She was deeply upset and didn’t know where to turn. One day, she came to my home seeking help.

After listening to her, I told her about the SASSA Grant-in-Aid, a support grant of R560 per month designed for people like her, those already receiving a social grant but who also need assistance from a caregiver. She was relieved and hopeful.

I helped her apply for the Grant-in-Aid at the nearest SASSA office, and today, she received both the Older Persons Grant and the Grant-in-Aid. This extra support has truly made a difference in her life, helping her live more comfortably and with dignity.

If you or a loved one is in a similar situation and needs extra help to pay for a caregiver, don’t wait. Apply for the SASSA Grant-in-Aid today. We’ve provided the full application process right here on this page to make it easy for you.

What is the SASSA Grant-in-Aid?

The SASSA Grant-in-Aid is an additional financial support provided to people who are already receiving one of the following social grants:

It is for individuals who need full-time care from another person due to physical or mental conditions, but cannot afford to pay for a caregiver. Eligible recipients receive R560 per month, which can be used to pay someone who looks after them.

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 Happens 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?

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.

You Need Full-Time Care

This grant is meant for people who:

  • Cannot look after themselves due to illness, disability, or mental/physical limitations
  • Need daily support from another person (a family member, caregiver, or nurse)

You Must Provide a Valid Medical Report

To prove you need full-time care, you must submit:

  • A medical report or assessment from a registered doctor
  • The report must be less than 3 months old
  • It should clearly state that you cannot care for yourself independently

You May Not Be in a State Institution

If you live full-time in a state institution, such as:

  • A government hospital
  • A state-run care home
  • A psychiatric facility
  • You cannot receive the Grant-in-Aid, as these institutions already provide full-time care.

South African Citizenship or Permanent Residency

You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee living in South Africa with a valid ID.

What if the Grant Application is Declined?

If your application for the SASSA Grant-in-Aid is not approved, don’t lose hope. You still have the right to challenge the decision.

Appeal Within 90 Days

If you believe the rejection was unfair or a mistake was made, you can appeal the decision.

You must submit your appeal within 90 days from the date you were notified of the rejection.

Who Do You Appeal To?

Your appeal must be made to the Minister of Social Development. In your appeal, you should:

  • Clearly state why you believe the decision should be reconsidered
  • Attach any supporting documents or updated medical reports
  • Include a copy of the rejection letter from SASSA (if available)

How to Submit the Appeal

Visit your nearest SASSA office for help with submitting the appeal, or contact the SASSA Call Centre at 0800 60 10 11 for guidance.