The South African government offers various social grants to assist individuals and families in need. One of those grants is the Care Dependency Grant (CDG), which provides financial support to caregivers of children with severe disabilities. This grant ensures that children with long-term physical or mental disabilities receive the necessary care and support for a better quality of life. In this guide, we will explain what the Care Dependency Grant is, who qualifies, how to apply, and other essential details about the CDG grant.

This is how care dependency grant work in South Africa

Care Dependency Grant

The Care Dependency Grant in South Africa is a social grant provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to parents or foster parents of children with severe disabilities. The grant aims to assist parents/foster parents to provide the necessary medical care, therapy, and other essential needs for their child.

Who gets care dependency grant

The parents, foster parents or legal guardians of children with disability

Children under the age of 18 with permanent disability

Children who require full time care

The child and the caregiver (parents, foster parents or legal guardians) must be South African Citizen or a refugee

The caregiver must not earn more than R223 200 per annum ( if you are single:

If you are married your combined income should not be above R446 400 per annum

NB: These conditions do not apply to foster parents!!

Care Dependency Grant Application 

Steps to apply for the Care Dependency Grant in South Africa

Step 1: Gather The Following Required Documents:

• Applicant’s ID document (South African ID book or Smart ID card)
• Child’s birth certificate (must show that the child is under 18 years old)
• Proof of income (salary slips, bank statements, or pension slips)
• Medical report (completed by a state-approved doctor confirming the child’s disability)
• Proof of residence (utility bill, lease agreement, or official letter)
• Banking details (if you prefer payment via bank transfer)
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)

Step 2: Visit a SASSA Office

Applications for the care dependency grant must be made in person at the nearest SASSA office. If the applicant cannot apply due to health reasons, a family member or friend can apply on their behalf with a power of attorney letter.

Step 3: SASSA Care Dependency Grant Application Form

When you get to SASSA offices, you will be given the SASSA Care Dependency Application Form to complete. If you encounter challenges filling the application form a SASSA official will assist in completing the Care Dependency Grant application form. Once submitted, applicants then receive a receipt as proof of application.

Step 4: Application Processing

After submitting your application, SASSA will process your application within 3 months. If you are approved, the first payment is backdated to the application date. If denied, applicants receive a written reason for rejection and can appeal within 90 days.

Approved SASSA beneficiaries can receive the grant payment through:

• Direct bank deposit into the caregiver’s account
• Cash payments at designated SASSA pay points
• Post office payments
• Selected retailers with SASSA payment services

How long does care dependency grant last

The care dependency grant last until the child who is disabled turns 18, is admitted to a state institution for full-time care, caregiver no longer meets the income requirements, child recovers or the caregiver and the child move out of South Africa. The SASSA Care Dependency can last for a short while if the SASSA officials find fraud activities of misrepresentation.

Care Dependency Grant Status check

Applicants of care dependency grant can check their application status by visiting the SASSA office or by contacting SASSA directly. Unfortunately, care dependency grant application status cannot be checked online.

Care Dependency Grant for Adults in South Africa

The care dependency grant for adults in South Africa is available in a form of a disability grant, social relief grant, grant in aid and older persons grant. These grants are applicable to persons older than 18 years.

Conclusion:

The Care Dependency Grant is a crucial financial aid for caregivers of children with severe disabilities in South Africa. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and payment methods, caregivers can ensure they receive the support they need. If you qualify, visit your nearest SASSA office to apply today. For more information, visit the official SASSA website or contact their helpline.