The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has implemented the War Veterans Grant to assist soldiers who participated in World War II (1939-1945) and the Korean War (1950-1953). This grant is intended to provide financial support to former soldiers experiencing difficulties supporting themselves and their families.
Eligibility Criteria for the SASSA War Veterans Grant
Basic Requirements
To qualify for the SASSA War Veterans Grant, applicants must meet several criteria:
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must be former South African army soldiers.
- Residency: Applicants must have permanent residency in South Africa.
- Age Requirement: The minimum age for eligibility is 60 years.
- War Participation: Applicants must have participated in either World War II or the Korean War.
- Means Test: Applicants must meet SASSA’s means test requirements.
- Exclusive Grant: Applicants must not receive any other grants from government institutions.
Financial Criteria
For those who qualify based on income and assets:
- Income: Single applicants should have an annual income not exceeding R86,280. For married applicants, the combined annual income should not exceed R172,560.
- Assets: Single applicants should have assets valued at no more than R1,227,600, while for married applicants, the combined asset value should not exceed R2,455,200.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must submit various documents to support their application:
- Identification: A 13-digit smart ID for single applicants, and the spouse’s ID for married couples.
- Army ID: The South African Army ID issued during the applicant’s service.
- Service Certificate: Proof of service in the army.
- Honorary Souvenir: If available, to provide additional proof of service.
- Marriage Certificate: Required for married applicants, or an oath statement for single status.
- Divorce Documents: For divorced applicants.
- Death Certificate: If the applicant’s spouse has passed away.
- Unemployment Documents: UIF Blue Book or a termination letter from the last employer if the applicant is unemployed.
- Bank Statements: Bank statements from the past three months.
- Investment Documents: If applicable.
Special Cases
If an applicant does not possess a South African ID, an affidavit certified by the Commissioner is required. The affidavit must confirm the details as instructed by SASSA, and be signed by a Councillor, Minister, or a high-ranking government employee.
Applicants Under 60
In special cases, applicants under 60 years old who cannot work due to a medical condition can still apply. A medical diagnosis report indicating the inability to work must be provided.
Application Process for the SASSA War Veterans Grant
Steps to Apply
- Visit a SASSA Office: Applicants should visit their nearest SASSA office to obtain an application form. If unable to visit due to age or illness, a relative or friend can apply on their behalf with a medical report explaining the inability to visit.
- Complete the Application: With the help of a SASSA representative, complete the application form and submit the required documents.
- Receive a Receipt: After submitting the application, the applicant will receive a receipt as proof of submission. This receipt includes the application ID and the date of submission.
Processing Time
The application process takes approximately three months. Once approved, the grant will be paid from the date of application submission. If the application is unsuccessful, SASSA will provide a letter explaining the reason for rejection.
Checking the SASSA War Veterans Grant Status
Methods to Check Status
- Pick ‘N Pay Shops: Check the status at any Pick ‘N Pay shop in South Africa.
- Banks: Including Post Bank.
- SASSA Offices: Directly at any SASSA office.
If the Application is Approved
Once the application is approved, SASSA will start disbursing the grant amount of R2180 per month, which will be deposited into the applicant’s account from the month of application. Applicants can check their grant status through the various channels mentioned earlier.
If the Application is Rejected
In case of rejection, applicants will receive a written notification. They have the right to appeal the decision to the Department of Social Development (DSD). If the appeal is unsuccessful, applicants can take their case to the High Court of South Africa as a last resort.
Review and Suspension of the Grant
Grant Review
SASSA reserves the right to review the grant recipient’s income status to ensure continued eligibility. Beneficiaries will be notified three months before the review, which usually occurs annually. It is the recipient’s responsibility to provide the required documents during the review process. Failure to provide the necessary documents may result in suspension of the grant.
Reasons for Grant Suspension
- Increase in Income: If the recipient’s income increases beyond the eligibility limit.
- False Information: If false information was provided in the application.
- Error in Approval: If the grant was approved by mistake.
- Non-receipt of Grant: If the recipient does not collect the grant for three consecutive months.
Reasons for Grant Lapsing
- Death: If the beneficiary passes away.
- Multiple Grants: If the beneficiary is receiving another welfare grant from a different government institution.
Conclusion
The SASSA War Veterans Grant is a significant initiative to support former soldiers who served in World War II and the Korean War. The grant provides financial assistance to those who are facing difficulties in sustaining themselves and their families. By meeting the eligibility criteria and providing the necessary documents, former soldiers can apply for this grant to secure a stable income. The application process, while thorough, ensures that only those who truly need the support receive it. Regular reviews and the possibility of suspension or lapsing of the grant are in place to maintain the integrity of the system and ensure fair distribution of resources.