Good news for caregivers across South Africa! Starting April 2025, the SASSA Care Dependency Grant has officially increased, providing some much-needed financial relief to families supporting children with severe disabilities.
As living expenses continue to climb, this R100 monthly boost is part of the government’s commitment to cushioning the country’s most vulnerable citizens.
Let’s look into what this increase means, who qualifies, and how you can access the updated payments without any stress.
Overview
The Care Dependency Grant is a monthly payment issued by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to assist caregivers of children under 18 who require permanent care due to physical or mental disabilities.
It’s not just a lifeline—it’s a way of ensuring these children get the support they need to live dignified lives.
Here’s what makes the grant stand out:
- Paid monthly to qualified caregivers
- Open to SA citizens, permanent residents, and refugees
- Requires a medical assessment
- Applies to children under 18 not living in state institutions
Increase
The much-anticipated increase takes effect from 20 April 2025. This change was announced as part of the national budget and aims to combat inflation and support vulnerable households.
Grant Increase Breakdown:
Detail | Amount |
---|---|
Previous Grant (2024) | R2,090 |
New Grant (April 2025) | R2,190 |
Increase per month | R100 |
Effective Date | 20 April 2025 |
This increase is automatic for all existing recipients. If you’re already getting the grant, you don’t need to reapply or fill out extra forms.
Schedule
Below is the updated payment schedule from April to October 2025. These dates let you know when your grant money will be available:
Month | Payment Date | Amount | Day |
---|---|---|---|
April 2025 | 20 April | R2,190 | Thursday |
May 2025 | 6 May | R2,190 | Tuesday |
June 2025 | 4 June | R2,190 | Wednesday |
July 2025 | 3 July | R2,190 | Thursday |
August 2025 | 5 August | R2,190 | Tuesday |
September | 3 September | R2,190 | Wednesday |
October | 2 October | R2,190 | Thursday |
Note: Payment dates may shift slightly due to public holidays or processing delays, so always double-check with SASSA updates.
Eligibility
To make sure the grant reaches those who need it most, there are specific eligibility rules in place:
You must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Be the primary caregiver of a child under 18 with a severe disability
- Ensure the child is not in full-time care at a state institution
- Pass the income means test
- Submit a medical report verifying the child’s condition
Income Limits (Means Test):
- Single applicants: Must earn less than R249,600 per year
- Married couples: Combined income must be under R499,200 annually
Application
If you’re new to the Care Dependency Grant process, here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
How to Apply:
- Go to your nearest SASSA office or apply online via SASSA services portal
- Bring a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate
- Provide your SA ID or relevant refugee documentation
- Undergo a medical assessment with a registered doctor
- Submit your medical and income documents
- Wait for approval (can take up to 3 months)
Once your application is approved, payments will be backdated to your application date. So don’t delay!
Contact
Got questions or stuck somewhere in the process? SASSA offers several ways to get help.
Department | Method | Contact |
---|---|---|
SASSA Head Office | Phone | 012 400 2000 |
Customer Helpline | Toll-Free | 0800 60 10 11 |
Email Support | grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za | |
Messaging | 082 046 8553 | |
Online Support | Website | services.sassa.gov.za |
Physical Visit | Office Address | 501 Prodinsa Building, Pretoria |
Whether you’re applying for the first time or checking on your payment status, SASSA’s support channels are there to help.
FAQs
What is the new grant amount for April 2025?
The new SASSA Care Dependency Grant is R2,190 per month.
When will the increased grant be paid?
The increased amount will be paid from 20 April 2025.
Do I need to reapply after the increase?
No, current recipients will get the increase automatically.
How much income is allowed for single applicants?
You must earn less than R249,600 per year as a single applicant.
Where can I apply for the grant?
Apply at a SASSA office or online at services.sassa.gov.za.