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Grant in Aid South Africa – Who Qualifies, Amount, and How to Apply

Learn who qualifies for the SASSA Grant in Aid, how much you will get, how to apply, required documents, and payment details in South Africa.

Hannah Smith
Hannah Smith
Career Expert
September 23, 2025
8 min read
Job Applications

Grant in Aid South Africa – Who Qualifies, Amount, and How to Apply

The Grant in Aid is an additional payment from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) for people who already receive a social grant but are unable to look after themselves.
It helps cover the cost of a caregiver who provides full-time care.

This guide explains who qualifies, how much you can get, and how to apply.

About the Grant in Aid

The Grant in Aid is available if you:

  • Already receive a disability grant, war veteran’s grant, or grant for older persons.
  • Cannot look after yourself due to a physical or mental disability.
  • Need full-time care from another person.
  • Are not being cared for in a government-subsidised institution.

How Much Is the Grant in Aid in 2025?

  • You will get R560 per month.
  • This amount is added to your existing social grant.

How Will You Be Paid?

SASSA pays the Grant in Aid through:

  • Cash at a specific pay point.
  • Electronic deposit into your bank/Postbank account (bank charges may apply).
  • An institution acting as administrator (e.g., welfare organisation).

⚠️ If you cannot collect the grant yourself, you may:

  • Appoint a procurator at the SASSA office.
  • Give someone power of attorney to collect on your behalf.

When May Your Grant Be Reviewed?

  • Your Grant in Aid may be reviewed when the main social grant it is attached to is reviewed.

How to Apply for the Grant in Aid

Visit your nearest SASSA office and bring:

  • Your 13-digit bar-coded ID.
  • Proof of marital status and spouse’s ID (if applicable).
  • A medical or assessment report (not older than 3 months) showing that you need full-time care.

👉 If you are too old or sick to travel, a family member or friend can apply on your behalf with:

  • A letter from you, and/or
  • A doctor’s note explaining why you cannot visit the office.

Application Steps

  1. Complete the application form at the SASSA office in the presence of an officer.
    • Only you (the applicant) or a SASSA officer may fill in the form.
  2. The officer will interview you to confirm if you qualify.
  3. You will receive a receipt — keep it as proof of application.

What if Your Application Is Not Approved?

  • You will receive written notification explaining why.
  • If you disagree, you may appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days of being notified.

How Long Does It Take?

  • Processing may take up to 3 months.
  • If approved, you will be paid from the date you applied.

How Much Does It Cost?

The service is free.

Forms to Complete

  • Application forms are not available online.
  • Collect them from your nearest SASSA office.

Who to Contact

South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)

  • 📞 Toll-free: 0800 60 10 11
  • 📧 Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Grant in Aid?

It’s an additional grant for people already receiving a disability grant, war veteran’s grant, or older person’s grant, who cannot look after themselves and need a caregiver.

2. How much is the Grant in Aid in 2025?

The amount is R560 per month.

3. Who qualifies for the Grant in Aid?

Anyone receiving a qualifying social grant who needs full-time care due to a physical or mental disability.

4. Can I apply online?

No. Applications must be made at a SASSA office.

5. Where can I find SASSA offices near me?

Use the SASSA Service Portal or contact the toll-free number (0800 60 10 11) to locate your nearest office.

✅ That’s all you need to know about the SASSA Grant in Aid in South Africa — who qualifies, how much you’ll get, and how to apply.

Hannah Smith

Hannah Smith

Career Expert & Job Search Specialist

Helping professionals navigate the South African job market