The SASSA Grant-In-Aid is a supplemental grant provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to existing social grant beneficiaries who require full-time care due to an inability to care for themselves. This grant helps them afford the necessary services of a caregiver.
The Grant-In-Aid is available to recipients of the old age grant, disability grant, and war veteran grant. It supplements these primary grants, ensuring that beneficiaries can access full-time care services if they are unable to care for themselves.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Grant-In-Aid, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Current Beneficiary Status: Must already receive an old age grant, disability grant, or war veteran grant.
- Means Test Compliance: Must meet the eligibility requirements of the primary grant, including the means test.
- Care Requirement: Must require full-time home care due to a severe physical or mental disability.
- Non-residency in State Facilities: Must not be receiving care in a state institution.
- Medical Assessment Report: Must provide a valid medical report, not older than three months, verifying the need for full-time care.
Grant Amount
As of October 1, 2023, the Grant-In-Aid amount is R510 per month per person. This amount will remain unchanged throughout 2024.
Application Procedure
Applying in Person
Applicants can apply for the Grant-In-Aid at their nearest SASSA office by filling out an application form. The application can be submitted simultaneously with the application for the primary grant.
Online Application
Applicants can also apply online by following the instructions on the SASSA services website.
Applying on Behalf of Someone Else
If the applicant is unable to visit the SASSA office due to age, illness, or disability, a trusted family member or friend can apply on their behalf. The representative must present a letter from the applicant and a doctor’s note explaining why the applicant cannot attend in person.
Medical Assessment Report
A valid medical assessment report, no older than three months, must be provided. The report can be from a private doctor or a state-appointed doctor.
Required Documents
Applicants must bring the following documents to the SASSA office:
- Identity Document: Original 13-digit bar-coded ID.
- Medical Assessment Report: Valid and recent, proving the need for full-time care.
- Marital Status Proof: Marriage certificate, divorce decree, death certificate of a spouse, or an affidavit if single.
- SASSA Affidavit for Grant-In-Aid: Signed and completed.
Processing Time
The processing time for the Grant-In-Aid application can take up to three months. Payments begin upon approval, and beneficiaries receive back payments from the application date. If the application is denied, SASSA will provide a written explanation.
Checking Grant Status
Applicants can check the status of their Grant-In-Aid application using the following methods:
- SASSA Website: Visit the official SASSA website.
- Moya App: Use the data-free method on the Moya app.
- SMS: Send an SMS to 082-046-8553.
- WhatsApp: Contact SASSA via WhatsApp at 082-046-8553.
- Toll-Free Number: Call SASSA at 0800-601011.
Beneficiary Responsibilities
- Update SASSA: Inform SASSA of any changes in personal and financial circumstances.
- Provide Accurate Information: Ensure all provided information is accurate and truthful.
- Keep Contact Information Updated: Notify SASSA of changes in address or contact details to avoid grant suspension.
Conclusion
The SASSA Grant-In-Aid provides essential support to those who require full-time care at home. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and responsibilities, beneficiaries can ensure they receive the support they need while maintaining compliance with SASSA’s requirements. Regular checks and updates are crucial to avoid any disruptions in receiving this vital assistance.