How to Apply for an SASSA Disability Grant?

In a society that values equality and diversity, South Africa has made great achievements in supporting people with disabilities. This initiative was launched by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), which provides essential support to disabled people through its grants program. SASSA disability grant is meant to cover the basic requirements of those people who can’t work because of a disability.

This article will explain the fundamentals of SASSA disability grants, including what they are, who can apply, what criteria are needed, and how they help create a more equitable society.

SASSA Status Check

You can check your Sassa srd r370 grants status here

SASSA Disability Grant

People with mental or physical disabilities in South Africa can apply for a disability award from the South African Social Security Administration (SASSA). The disability award is available to those who can’t work for longer than six months as a result of a mental or physical disability.

Throughout South Africa, people who are disabled rely on SASSA disability grants. The purpose of the SASSA grants is to assist disabled people with basic needs like housing, food, and healthcare so that they can live independently with respect and dignity.

Types of SASSA Disability Grant

The medical evaluation will decide whether you’re qualified for a permanent or temporary disability grant or not. These are:

1. Permanent Disability Grant

You can be qualified for this type of disability grant if your disability remains for more than a year. Remember that “permanent” here doesn’t mean “forever.” As long as your disabilities continue, you’ll get the award payment each month over a year.

2. Temporary Disability Grant

A temporary disability grant is available to those who are disabled for a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 12 months. If it is continuously increasing, you can apply to have it renewed.

What is the SASSA Grant amount for disabled people?

As of the latest updates on 1 October 2023, the monthly disability grant amount for each disabled person is R2,090 per month. The grant amounts are determined on a sliding scale means that people whose private income is lowest will get the largest disability grant amount.

Because the grant is specially organized to help disabled individuals with low income. The grant’s amount will be reduced if the applicant’s private income grows. From 1 April 2024, the amount of the grant is increased by R90 which will become R2,180.

What is the SASSA Means Test?

SASSA uses a means test to determine who gets social aid. A means test decides if an applicant is eligible for the disability grant or not. This test involves analyzing the applicant’s income and assets.

1. Income Threshold

The recipient must not have an annual income of more than R86 280 if single and R172 560 if married.

2. Assets Threshold

A single beneficiary can’t have assets exceeding R1 227 600, and a married couple can’t have assets exceeding R2 455 200.

Qualification Criteria for Disability Grant

The applicant must fulfill the following criteria to get this grant before applying:

•  Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or asylum seeker (refugee)
•  Must have a valid South African identity document (ID) issued by the government.
•  Must be between 18-59 age.
•  Must not entitled to welfare services provided by the government.
•  Must be medically examined by a state-appointed doctor to determine the nature of your disability.
•  Must ensure that you bring relevant medical documents and reports with you to the application assessment procedures.
•  Must not earn income more than R86 280 if single and R172 560 if married.
• Must not own assets more than R1 227 600 if single and R2 455 200 if married.
•  Must pass the means test.
•  Must not get any other social grant.

How to Apply for Disability Grant?

You must have the following documents (either the originals or certified copies) to fill out the online application form for the SASSA disability grant:

•  Proof of your disability, including medical and functional assessment report from a doctor or other healthcare provider recognized by SASSA. The medical report you provided must not be 3 months old when you submit your application.
• Proof of your Marital Status.
•  Proof of your earnings or income (if any).
• Proof of your assets, including property valuations by the government.
• Provide the bank statement for the last 3 months.
•  Provide an Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) paperwork or a ‘Blue Book’ if you had a job before resigning from the prior company.
•  In case of your spouse’s death, provide a copy of their death certificate within the past 5 years.
  Next, either apply online or visit a local SASSA office to submit your Disability Grant application. The steps are:

1. At Local Office

• Go to the nearest SASSA office with the above-mentioned documents.
•  Submit the application form under the supervision of the SASSA officer.
• The officer will decide whether you qualify or not by interviewing you.
• Once you apply, you’ll receive a receipt as evidence.

2. Through SASSA Website

•  Visit the official SASSA website.
• Select “grants” to view all of the available grant opportunities.
• Then, choose “Disability Grant”.
•  Now, complete the form and make sure everything is correct.
• Lastly, submit the application.

After this, you can check the SASSA disability grant status online here.

SASSA Disability Grant Payment Process

SASSA payment dates will be sent to you after your grant application is approved. The following are steps for receiving your SASSA Disability grant payment:

• The person can expect to get their SASSA payment from 3-4 of every month.
• The funds can be sent straight into the accounts you choose.
• You can also get your grant in cash.
• If you’re eligible for this grant, simply go to a desired store and collect it.
• If you’re unable to go by yourself, it’s also possible to ask someone to collect the funds on your behalf.

What if your SASSA Disability Grant application is not approved?

Suppose your request for reconsideration is again rejected. In that case, you can take your case to the National Department of Social Development, which is also a part of the Ministry of Social Development, to challenge SASSA’s decision. But make sure, the appeal must be submitted within 90 days after the application is submitted.

Your appeal will be reviewed by the Ministry of Social Development, who will then decide. They can reverse the SASSA’s decision and initiate the payment of your award if they find it in your favor. If your appeal is denied, you can expect to get a letter explaining the reason behind the decision.

Conclusion

In summary, the SASSA Disability Grant stands as proof of South Africa’s commitment to inclusivity and support for its disabled population. This award helps disabled people to fulfill their lives despite their limitations by providing financial support and essential resources. For ongoing guidance and check balance updates on the SASSA disability grant, our website offers a convenient platform for accessing vital information and support throughout the process.