Here’s how you can qualify for a SASSA Disability grant

South Africans living with a physical or mental disability that prevents them from working for longer than six months may qualify for a SASSA Disability grant.

The grant is available as either a temporary or permanent disability grant.

A temporary grant applies when a disability is expected to last at least six months, but no longer than 12 months.

A permanent disability grant applies when the condition is expected to continue for more than 12 months.

Importantly, a permanent disability grant does not necessarily mean the payment will continue for life.

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Who qualifies?

Applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident or refugee and living in South Africa at the time of application
• Be between 18 and 59 years old
• Not be cared for in a state institution
• Have a 13-digit, bar-coded identity document (ID)
• Not earn more than R86 280 per annum if you are single or R172 560 if married.
• Not have assets worth more than R1 227 600 if you are single or R2 455 200 if you are married
• Undergo a medical assessment by a state-appointed doctor

Applicants must also provide their 13-digit bar-coded ID and relevant medical records and reports.

The current maximum disability grant is R2 400 per month.

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How do you apply?

Applications must be completed at a SASSA office in the presence of a SASSA official.

Applicants need to provide supporting documents including proof of residence, income and assets, bank statements for the previous three months and proof of marital status where applicable.

A medical report and functional assessment confirming the disability are also required.

People without an ID can still apply, but must complete an affidavit and provide proof that they have applied for an identity document through the Department of Home Affairs.

How long does it take?

SASSA says a SASSA Disability grant application can take up to three months to process. If approved, the grant is paid from the date the application was submitted.

The service is free.

If an application is rejected, applicants can appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days of receiving notification of the decision.

For official information, applicants should contact SASSA or visit their nearest SASSA office.