SASSA Care Dependency Grant: R2,315 Per Month for Severely Disabled Children
The Care Dependency Grant is a monthly payment of R2,315 from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) for children with severe disabilities who need permanent care and support. Parents or primary caregivers of qualifying children can apply at any SASSA office. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what documents you need.
Care Dependency Grant amount (2026): R2,315 per month. Contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 or visit www.sassa.gov.za for more information.
What Is the Care Dependency Grant?
The Care Dependency Grant (CDG) is a social grant paid by SASSA to the parent or caregiver of a child who has a severe disability that requires full-time care. The grant amount in 2026 is R2,315 per month.
The grant is intended to help families cover the extra costs of caring for a child with a severe mental or physical disability. It is paid until the child turns 18, at which point the child may qualify for a Disability Grant in their own name.
Who Qualifies for the Care Dependency Grant?
Child Eligibility Requirements
- The child must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- The child must be between 1 and 18 years old.
- The child must have a severe disability requiring full-time care and support.
- A medical assessment must confirm the severity of the disability.
The means test applies to both the applicant and their spouse. If your combined monthly income exceeds the SASSA threshold, your application may be declined. Check current thresholds at www.sassa.gov.za.
Caregiver Eligibility Requirements
- The applicant must be the parent or primary caregiver of the child.
- The applicant must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- The applicant must pass the means test: combined household income must not exceed the threshold set by SASSA.
- The applicant must not be receiving a similar grant for the same child.
Documents Required to Apply
- Completed SASSA application form (available at SASSA offices or online).
- Child's birth certificate (certified copy).
- Your identity document (ID) or passport.
- Medical report from a registered medical practitioner confirming the severe disability.
- Proof of residence (utility bill, affidavit, or similar document).
- If applicable: proof of income such as payslips or bank statements.
- If the child is not your biological child: court order or letter of authority confirming you are the primary caregiver.
Applications can only be submitted in person at a SASSA office. You cannot apply for the Care Dependency Grant online. Call 0800 60 10 11 to find your nearest office.
How to Apply for the Care Dependency Grant
- Gather all the required documents listed above.
- Visit your nearest SASSA office. Find offices at www.sassa.gov.za or call 0800 60 10 11.
- Complete the SASSA application form with the help of a SASSA official if needed.
- Submit your application and documents. You will receive an acknowledgement receipt.
- A SASSA official or social worker may conduct a home visit to confirm the child's circumstances.
- SASSA will notify you of the outcome within 90 days of receiving your completed application.
- If approved, SASSA will confirm your payment method (SASSA card or bank account).
How to Appeal a Declined Application
If your application is declined, SASSA must give you written reasons. You have the right to appeal the decision.
Submit your appeal to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) within 90 days of receiving the decline letter. You can submit the appeal at any SASSA office or send it directly to ITSAA.
- Ask the SASSA office for the appeals form (or download it from www.sassa.gov.za).
- Attach any additional supporting medical evidence that may strengthen your case.
- Keep copies of all documents you submit.
- Follow up with SASSA or ITSAA if you have not received a response within 60 days.