South Africa’s social security system is designed to offer financial assistance to individuals in need, and one such benefit is the Temporary Disability Grant. This grant provides support to people who are unable to work for a period of six to twelve months due to a temporary disability. However, what many beneficiaries don’t realize is that the grant has an expiry date, and if it’s not renewed on time, payments will stop.
If you or someone you know receives a Temporary Disability Grant, it’s crucial to understand the renewal process before the grant expires. In this blog post, we’ll take you through how to renew your Temporary Disability Grant, the requirements, timelines, and tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
What Is a Temporary Disability Grant?
Before we get into the renewal process, let’s quickly review what a Temporary Disability Grant is.
This grant is meant for South Africans between the ages of 18 and 59 who are medically certified as temporarily disabled. Unlike the Permanent Disability Grant, which covers disabilities expected to last longer than a year, the Temporary Disability Grant is intended for people whose disability or illness is expected to improve within 6 to 12 months.
But what happens if your health does not improve in that time, and you are still unable to work? That’s where the renewal process comes in.
Why It’s Important to Renew Before It Expires
If your Temporary Disability Grant expires and you fail to renew it in time, your payments will stop, and you may have to reapply from scratch. This means starting the entire application process all over again, including obtaining new medical assessments and waiting for approval.
Renewing before your grant expires helps avoid unnecessary delays in getting the financial support you need.
When Should You Renew Your Temporary Disability Grant?
SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) usually reviews Temporary Disability Grants every six months or as recommended by your medical report. The expiry date is typically listed on your approval letter or grant notification.
A good rule of thumb:
- Start the renewal process at least two months before your grant expires.
- Don’t wait until the last minute; the medical and administrative processes can take time.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Renew a Temporary Disability Grant Before It Expires
Here’s a breakdown of how you can renew your Temporary Disability Grant before it lapses:
1. Check Your Expiry Date
Make sure you know when your Temporary Disability Grant is due to expire. You can:
- Look at your original approval letter.
- Contact the SASSA office that manages your grant.
- Call the SASSA toll-free number: 0800 60 10 11.
2. Get a New Medical Assessment
Renewal of your grant requires a fresh medical assessment. This is to confirm whether your disability or illness still prevents you from working.
- You need to visit a state doctor or a doctor appointed by SASSA.
- The doctor will complete a Medical Assessment Report.
📝 Important Note:
Private doctor reports are generally not accepted by SASSA unless the doctor is contracted by SASSA.
3. Gather the Required Documents
When renewing, you will need to bring along certain documents. Here’s a checklist:
- South African ID book/card (or your refugee status permit if applicable)
- Medical Assessment Report (issued within the last 3 months)
- Proof of income (if applicable)
- Bank statement (for the last three months)
- Proof of residence
- Discharge certificate (if you were in a state institution)
4. Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office
After your medical assessment, you need to visit your nearest SASSA office to start the renewal process.
✅ What to expect at the SASSA office:
- You will be interviewed by a SASSA official.
- Your documentation will be reviewed.
- Your case will be processed based on your medical assessment.
5. SASSA Will Review Your Application
Once you’ve submitted everything:
- SASSA may take a few weeks to process your renewal.
- They may approve the continuation of your grant for another 6 to 12 months, depending on the medical advice.
- If your condition has improved and you are declared fit to work, your grant may be declined.
You will receive written communication via SMS, email, or a letter with SASSA’s decision.
What If Your Temporary Disability Grant Renewal Is Declined?
If your renewal is declined but you feel that you are still unable to work, you have options.
You can:
- Appeal the decision:
- You must appeal within 90 days of being informed of the outcome.
- Appeals are submitted to the Ministry of Social Development, explaining why you disagree with the decision and including supporting documents.
- Reapply for the grant:
- If your condition worsens, you can submit a new application.
- You will need another medical assessment and supporting documents.
Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process
- Act Early: Start the renewal process at least two months before your grant expires.
- Keep Copies: Make copies of all documents you submit to SASSA.
- Stay Updated: Regularly follow up with your SASSA office or use the SASSA online services, if available.
- Be Honest During Your Medical Assessment: Explain your health condition in detail, how it affects your ability to work, and any limitations you have.
Can You Switch to a Permanent Disability Grant?
If your medical condition is not improving and it’s clear that you’ll be unable to work for the foreseeable future, your doctor may recommend that you apply for a Permanent Disability Grant instead of renewing your Temporary Grant.
The process is similar, but the Permanent Grant does not have an automatic expiry date. However, it can still be reviewed periodically by SASSA to ensure you remain eligible.
How Much Is the Temporary Disability Grant in 2025?
As of the latest information in 2025, the Temporary Disability Grant pays R2,090 per month. This amount may change with SASSA’s annual reviews and increases announced in the national budget speech.
Contact Details for SASSA
If you need assistance or have any questions about renewing your Temporary Disability Grant, here are SASSA’s contact details:
📞 Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
📍 Visit your nearest SASSA local office
🌐 Website: www.sassa.gov.za
📧 Some regions may also offer email support—check your local office for more details.
Conclusion
Renewing your Temporary Disability Grant before it expires is crucial to ensure there’s no disruption in your financial support. The key is to start the process early, get a new medical assessment, and submit all the required documents on time.
If you’re still unsure about the process, visit your local SASSA office or contact their toll-free helpline for guidance.