SASSA Care Dependency Grant Increase – The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially announced an increase in the Care Dependency Grant for April 2025. This announcement brings a wave of relief and support to thousands of caregivers across the country who rely on this financial assistance to care for children with severe disabilities. As the cost of living continues to rise, the updated grant offers much-needed financial aid and reassurance.
This article covers all the essential information about the April 2025 SASSA Care Dependency Grant increase, including the new payment amounts, disbursement dates, eligibility details, and frequently asked questions. Let’s break it down so you can understand how these changes may affect you and your household.
What is the SASSA Care Dependency Grant?
The Care Dependency Grant is a financial support program administered by SASSA. It is designed for caregivers of children under 18 years old who require full-time care due to physical or mental disabilities. This grant ensures that caregivers have the necessary resources to provide for the specialized needs of their children.
Key Features of the Grant:
- Monthly payment to eligible caregivers
- Available to South African citizens, permanent residents, and refugees
- Medical assessment required to confirm child’s disability
- Applicable to children up to 18 years old
SASSA Grant Hike 2025: Double Payment Coming in April – Double Grant & Full Payment Dates Released
April 2025 Payment Increase: What Has Changed?
To combat rising inflation and ensure that vulnerable families are not left behind, the South African government has increased the value of the Care Dependency Grant starting in April 2025. The increase was part of the national budget speech delivered earlier this year and is part of a broader strategy to enhance social welfare support.
Payment Hike Highlights:
- Effective from: 20 April 2025
- Previous monthly grant: R2,090
- New monthly grant: R2,190
- Increase amount: R100
- Applies to all eligible recipients automatically
This increase reflects the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for children with severe disabilities and their families.
Updated Care Dependency Grant Payment Schedule – 2025
SASSA has released the revised payment schedule for 2025. Grant payments are made monthly, and beneficiaries can collect their funds through designated SASSA channels including Postbank, bank accounts, and retail outlets.
Payment Dates Table (April – October 2025):
Month | Payment Date | New Grant Amount | Day of the Week |
---|---|---|---|
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 2025 | 3 September | R2,190 | Wednesday |
October 2025 | 2 October | R2,190 | Thursday |
Please note: Dates are subject to change depending on public holidays and administrative delays.
Who is Eligible for the Care Dependency Grant?
To receive the Care Dependency Grant, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements are in place to ensure that the grant reaches those who need it the most.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The child must be under the age of 18
- The child must suffer from a permanent, severe disability
- The caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- The applicant and spouse must meet the means test requirements
- A medical assessment must confirm the child’s condition
- The child must not be permanently cared for in a state institution
Means Test Threshold:
- Single applicant income threshold: Not more than R249,600 per year
- Married applicants: Combined income not more than R499,200 per year
How to Apply for the Care Dependency Grant
Applying for the Care Dependency Grant can be done either at a SASSA office or online through the SASSA services portal. Below are the general steps to follow:
Application Steps:
- Visit your nearest SASSA office or use the online application system.
- Submit a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate.
- Provide your South African ID or legal documentation if you are a refugee.
- Complete a medical assessment with a registered medical practitioner.
- Submit a medical report and means test documentation.
- Await application approval (can take up to 3 months).
Once approved, you will start receiving monthly payments from the date of application.
Contact Information for SASSA Departments
For queries, complaints, or further assistance regarding the Care Dependency Grant, you can reach SASSA using the following contact details:
SASSA Contact Details:
Department | Contact Method | Details |
---|---|---|
SASSA Head Office | Phone | 012 400 2000 |
Customer Care Helpline | Toll-Free Number | 0800 60 10 11 |
Email Enquiries | [email protected] | |
WhatsApp Service | Messaging | 082 046 8553 |
Online Portal Support | Website | https://services.sassa.gov.za |
Physical Address | Visit Office | 501 Prodinsa Building, Pretoria |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When will I receive the increased Care Dependency Grant?
A: The new grant amount of R2,190 will be disbursed starting from 1 April 2025, following the regular monthly payment schedule.
Q2: Do I need to reapply to get the increased amount?
A: No. If you are already receiving the grant, the new amount will be updated automatically by SASSA.
Q3: What should I do if I missed my payment date?
A: You can still collect your grant at any time after the payment date using your SASSA card or bank transfer option.
Q4: What happens if the child turns 18?
A: The grant will be terminated when the child turns 18, unless there are exceptional circumstances. In such cases, consider applying for the Disability Grant.
Q5: Can I appeal a rejected application?
A: Yes, if your application is denied, you have the right to appeal within 90 days by contacting your local SASSA office or submitting an online appeal.
The April 2025 increase in the SASSA Care Dependency Grant is a vital step toward easing the financial burden on families caring for children with disabilities. With the payment now at R2,190, caregivers have a bit more room to cover essential needs and provide better care for their children. It’s important to stay informed about payment dates and eligibility requirements to ensure continued access to this crucial support.
For further updates, regularly check the official SASSA website or contact their helpline. If you’re eligible but haven’t yet applied, take action today and secure the support you need.
When can beneficiaries expect the SASSA Care Dependency Grant increase in April 2025, and what is the amount of the payment hike?
Beneficiaries can expect the SASSA Care Dependency Grant increase in April 2025, with the specific payment hike amount and date announced