The SASSA Care Dependency Grant pays R2 400 per month from April 2026. It is paid to caregivers of children under the age of 18 who have a severe physical or mental disability that requires full-time care at home. The SASSA Care Dependency Grant exists separately from the Child Support Grant. A caregiver may qualify for both for the same child if requirements are met.
Who qualifies for the SASSA Care Dependency Grant
You must be the parent, primary caregiver or foster parent of the child. You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident or recognised refugee. Both you and the child must live in South Africa. The child must be under 18 years old and require permanent home-based care due to severe disability. The child must not be cared for permanently in a state institution.
SASSA Care Dependency Grant means test
The means test applies to the caregiver, not the child. Single caregivers must earn no more than R277 200 per year, or R23 100 per month. Married caregivers must have a combined income of no more than R554 400 per year, or R46 200 per month. Foster parents do not have a means test applied.
Medical assessment
A medical assessment report from a state-appointed doctor is required. The doctor must confirm that the child’s condition requires permanent home care and that the disability is severe. The assessment must be no older than three months when you apply.
Documents required
- Your 13-digit bar-coded South African ID
- The child’s birth certificate
- Medical assessment report confirming severe disability
- Proof of income
- Proof of residence
- Proof of marital status, where applicable
How to apply for the SASSA Care Dependency Grant
Apply in person at your nearest SASSA office. A SASSA officer will assist you, book the medical assessment, and verify your documents. Applications are free. For monthly payment dates, see the SASSA payment dates 2026 schedule.
Sources
- South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)
- Western Cape Government: SASSA services
- Department of Social Development: 2026/27 grant increases
About this article
Nuusflits is a South African news publication covering current affairs, social grants and consumer information. This article is sourced from official primary sources, including the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the Department of Social Development, the National Treasury and SAnews. Facts are verified against the published 2026/27 social grant schedule and current SASSA policy. Last updated 21 May 2026.
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