Who Qualifies for SASSA Grants in South Africa? (Updated 2025)
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides financial relief to citizens who need support. As of 2025, several types of SASSA grants are available, and each has specific eligibility criteria. Understanding who qualifies for SASSA grants is essential to ensure a successful application.
This article explains the updated 2025 criteria and provides guidance on who qualifies for SASSA grants in South Africa. Whether you’re a caregiver, pensioner, or a person living with a disability, there is a grant tailored to your situation.
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General Eligibility for SASSA Grants
Before exploring the individual grants, all applicants must meet general requirements:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee with legal status.
- Live in South Africa.
- Not receive support from other government-funded institutions.
- Meet income and asset thresholds (means test).
- Apply with valid identification and necessary documentation.
Each grant also has specific criteria. Let’s look at the types of grants and who qualifies for each.
1. Older Persons Grant
This grant is for South Africans aged 60 and older who need financial help.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be 60 years or older.
- Must pass the means test.
- Cannot be maintained or cared for in a state institution.
- Cannot receive another social grant for oneself.
Means Test Thresholds (2025):
- Single: income less than R96,840 annually.
- Married: combined income less than R193,680 annually.
2. Disability Grant
This grant is for adults who are permanently or temporarily disabled.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Between 18 and 59 years old.
- Certified disabled by a registered medical doctor.
- Unable to work due to disability.
- Must pass the means test.
- Must not be in a state institution.
Disabilities are assessed every year or six months, depending on severity.
3. Child Support Grant
This grant supports low-income caregivers raising children.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Child must be under 18.
- Applicant must be the primary caregiver.
- Both child and caregiver must reside in South Africa.
- Must pass the means test.
- Up to six non-biological children can be supported.
Means Test Thresholds (2025):
- Single: income under R60,000 per year.
- Married: combined income under R120,000 per year.
4. Foster Child Grant
This grant assists foster parents legally caring for foster children.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must have a valid court order of foster care.
- Child must be under 18.
- Must live in South Africa.
- No means test applies.
The grant continues as long as the court order remains in effect.
5. Care Dependency Grant
This is for caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require full-time care.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Child must be under 18.
- Must have a valid medical assessment confirming severe disability.
- Caregiver and child must reside in South Africa.
- Must pass the means test.
- Child must not be in a state institution.
6. Grant-in-Aid
This is a supplementary grant for those who already receive the Old Age, Disability, or War Veteran’s Grant and require full-time care.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Already receiving a primary grant.
- Require 24/7 care due to physical or mental condition.
- Cannot reside in a state institution.
A medical assessment is necessary for approval.
7. Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
This grant provides temporary financial assistance during times of crisis, such as unemployment or disaster.
Eligibility Criteria (Updated for 2025):
- Age 18 to 59.
- South African citizen, permanent resident, or approved asylum seeker.
- Monthly income less than R624.
- No support from other government schemes (e.g., UIF or NSFAS).
- Bank balance below R624.
Applications can be made online or at SASSA offices. SRD grants are reviewed monthly.
How to Apply for SASSA Grants
SASSA has streamlined its application process for 2025:
Application Methods:
- Online: Visit https://srd.sassa
- In-person: Go to a SASSA office near you.
Documents Needed:
- Valid South African ID or legal documentation.
- Proof of income and residence.
- Court order (for foster care).
- Medical assessments (for disability-related grants).
Final Thoughts
Knowing who qualifies for SASSA grants in 2025 is crucial if you’re in financial need. Each grant has its own eligibility rules, but all aim to help South Africans live with dignity. Whether you’re elderly, disabled, unemployed, or raising children, there’s support available.
Apply early, ensure your documents are correct, and seek assistance from a SASSA officer if needed. Financial relief is within reach when you meet the requirements
