SASSA Care Dependency Grant 2026: Complete Guide
Full guide to the Care Dependency Grant — R2,400/month for caregivers of children with severe disabilities. Eligibility, medical assessment, application steps, and payment dates.
On this page:
What Is the Care Dependency Grant?
Eligibility Requirements
Child Requirements:
• Child must be under 18 years old
• Child must have a severe disability confirmed by a medical report from a SASSA-designated government doctor
• The disability must require permanent care or supervision at home
• The child must not be cared for in a state-funded institution for more than 6 months
Caregiver Requirements:
• Must be the child's parent, guardian, or primary caregiver
• Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
• Must pass the means test (income below R24,000/month single or R48,000/month combined for married)
• Must not be receiving another grant for the same child
Documents Required
How to Apply
Get a Medical Assessment
Visit your nearest government hospital or clinic and request a medical assessment for the Care Dependency Grant. The doctor must complete a medical report confirming the child's disability and that they require full-time care. This is not a private doctor's note — it must be from a government-designated health professional.
Start Your Application (Online or In Person)
You can start your Care Dependency Grant application online via the official SASSA Services Portal at services.sassa.gov.za — register, log in, and complete the online application. Alternatively, take all documents to your nearest SASSA office. Arrive early (before 08:00) to avoid long queues. Request Form SASSA 1 and tell the officer you are applying for the Care Dependency Grant.
Submit Your Application
The SASSA officer will review your documents, take copies, and give you a receipt. Ensure you get a stamped proof of application with a reference number. The officer will explain when you can expect feedback.
Wait for SASSA to Visit Your Home
SASSA will send an official to your home to verify that the child lives with you and to assess the care environment. This home visit is mandatory for the Care Dependency Grant. The official will report back to SASSA with their findings.
Receive the Outcome
SASSA aims to process applications within 60 days. If approved, payments start from the date of application (not the date of approval). If declined, you can appeal within 90 days.
Grant Amount & Payment Dates 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive both Child Support Grant and Care Dependency Grant for the same child?
No. You cannot receive both grants for the same child. However, you can receive the Care Dependency Grant for one child and the Child Support Grant for another child in your care.
Can I apply for the Care Dependency Grant online?
Yes. You can start your application online via the official SASSA Services Portal at services.sassa.gov.za. The medical assessment from a government-designated doctor and the mandatory home visit are still required.
Is a private doctor's medical report accepted?
No. The medical report must be completed by a government-designated doctor at a state hospital or clinic. Private doctor reports are not accepted by SASSA for the Care Dependency Grant.
What if SASSA denies my application?
You have the right to appeal within 90 days. If the denial was due to an incomplete medical report, get a more detailed assessment from the government doctor and resubmit.
Sources
Editorial note: SASSA Help Hub is an independent, unofficial information resource and is not affiliated with the South African Social Security Agency. This page was last reviewed on 2026-08-20 by Lucky Cungwa. See our Editorial Policy, Fact-Checking Policy, and Sources Policy. Found an error? Report it.