The care dependency grant provides crucial financial support to caregivers of children with severe disabilities who need constant care. If you’re caring for a child who requires extra assistance, understanding how this grant works can help you access the funds needed to ease the financial challenges. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about eligibility, application steps, payment amounts, and more — so you can confidently apply for the care dependency grant in 2025.

What is the Care Dependency Grant?

The care dependency grant is a financial support program provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). It is aimed at assisting parents, foster parents, or primary caregivers who take care of children with severe disabilities that require permanent care or support.

This grant helps cover the additional costs of caring for a child who cannot take care of themselves due to a serious physical or mental condition. It ensures that families facing these challenges have the necessary resources to meet the child’s daily medical, nutritional, and personal care needs.

To qualify, the child must be under the age of 18 and must undergo a medical assessment by a state-appointed doctor. This assessment confirms whether the child’s condition qualifies for the grant under SASSA’s guidelines. If approved, the caregiver receives a monthly payment to assist with the child’s care.

The care dependency grant plays a critical role in supporting low-income households by reducing the financial pressure involved in caring for children with long-term health conditions. It also forms part of South Africa’s commitment to social development and inclusive care for vulnerable groups.

Who Qualifies for the Care Dependency Grant?

To receive the care dependency grant, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). These requirements ensure that only those who truly need financial support for caring for children with severe disabilities receive the grant.

Here’s who qualifies:

1. The Child Must Have a Severe Disability
   The child must be under the age of 18 and suffer from a serious physical or mental condition that requires full-time care. A state-appointed medical doctor must assess the child and confirm that they are permanently dependent on a caregiver.
2. The Applicant Must Be a South African Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Refugee
   The person applying for the grant — whether a parent, foster parent, or primary caregiver — must be legally living in South Africa.
3. Both the Child and the Caregiver Must Live in South Africa
   SASSA requires that both the caregiver and the child reside in South Africa at the time of the application and while receiving the grant.
4. The Means Test Must Be Met
   SASSA uses a means test to check whether the caregiver’s income is below a certain limit. This ensures the care dependency grant goes to those who need it most.
   • If the caregiver is married, the combined income of both spouses is considered.
   • Foster parents, however, are not subject to the means test.
5. The Child Should Not Be Cared for in a State Institution
   If the child is permanently cared for in a government-funded institution (like a state hospital or residential facility), the grant will not be approved. The purpose of the grant is to support care provided at home.

How Much is the Care Dependency Grant in 2025?

From 1 April 2025, SASSA increased the monthly payment for the care dependency grant to R2 315. This represents an increase of R130 over the previous amount of R2 185 per month.

This updated rate applies to the care dependency grant that helps caregivers cover the extra costs associated with caring for a child with severe disability. The payment is made monthly and continues until the beneficiary is no longer eligible (for instance, when the child turns 18 or enters a state‑funded institution).

Required Documents for Application

When applying for the care dependency grant, it’s important to have all the necessary documents ready to avoid delays in the process. SASSA requires specific paperwork to confirm the identity, income status, and medical condition of the child and caregiver.

Here are the documents you need:

1. Certified Copy of Your South African ID
   • If you are a refugee or permanent resident, submit your legal permit or refugee ID.
2. Child’s Birth Certificate
   • This must show that the child is under 18 years of age.
3. Medical or Assessment Report
   • A report completed by a state-appointed doctor confirming that the child has a severe, permanent disability.
4. Proof of Income
   • Bank statements, payslips, or an affidavit showing your household income.
   • Note: Foster parents do not need to undergo a means test.
5. Proof of Residence
   • A recent utility bill, letter from a ward councillor, or lease agreement confirming where you live.
6. Banking Details (optional but recommended)
   • A stamped bank statement or confirmation letter if you prefer to receive the care dependency grant via bank deposit.
7. Proof of Relationship to the Child
   • If you are not the biological parent (e.g., foster parent or guardian), provide legal documents confirming your relationship to the child.
8. Court Order (for Foster Parents)
   • If you are applying as a foster parent, include the court order that placed the child in your care.

How to Apply for the Care Dependency Grant

Applying for the care dependency grant is a free and straightforward process, but it does require that you follow the correct steps and provide the necessary documentation. All applications must be made through the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply successfully:

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office
   Applications for the care dependency grant must be done in person at a SASSA local office. You cannot apply online at this time.
2. Take All Required Documents With You
   Bring your ID, the child’s birth certificate, medical report, proof of income, and any other necessary paperwork. Having everything ready can speed up the process.
3. Complete the Application Forms at the Office
   A SASSA officer will help you fill in the application forms. They will also assist if you cannot read or write.
4. Submit the Medical Assessment Report
   The child must be assessed by a state-appointed doctor, who will provide a medical report to confirm the severity of the disability.
5. Get a Receipt as Proof of Application
   Once you’ve submitted everything, SASSA will give you a receipt with a reference number. Keep this safe as proof of your application.
6. Wait for the Outcome
   SASSA will evaluate your application and notify you of the result. This process can take up to 3 months. If approved, payments will be backdated to the date you applied.

Important Notes:

• There is no cost to apply for the care dependency grant.
• If you’re unable to go in person due to illness or disability, you may send someone with a letter of permission and your documents.
• You must notify SASSA if your address, income, or caregiving situation changes after applying.

Can You Apply for the Grant Online?

As of 2025, the care dependency grant cannot be applied for online. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) currently requires that all applications for this grant be done in person at a local SASSA office.

This is mainly because the application involves:

• Completing official forms with the help of a SASSA officer,
• Submitting original documents for verification,
• And undergoing a medical assessment by a state-appointed doctor.

Due to the nature of the care dependency grant, in-person visits ensure that both the caregiver and the child meet all necessary eligibility criteria, especially those related to the child’s medical condition.

What You Can Do Online:

While the application itself must be done in person, you can still use the SASSA services online for other purposes, such as:

• Checking your application status
• Updating your banking details
• Viewing payment dates

You can visit the official SASSA website:
https://srd.sassa.gov.za

How to Check the Status of Your Application

After applying for the care dependency grant, it’s normal to want updates on whether your application has been approved. Fortunately, SASSA offers a few simple ways for applicants to check the progress of their application.

You should wait at least 2 to 3 weeks after applying before checking the status, as it takes time for SASSA to process the documents and complete the medical evaluation.

Ways to Check the Status of Your Care Dependency Grant Application

1. Online via the SASSA Website
   Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za and click on the “Application Status” link.
   • Enter your ID number and the phone number you used when applying.
   • This option is available 24/7 and is the fastest way to get updates.
2. Call the SASSA Toll-Free Number
   You can contact SASSA directly on 0800 60 10 11 to ask about the status of your care dependency grant application.
   • Have your ID number and reference number ready.
3. Visit the Nearest SASSA Office
   If you prefer face-to-face assistance or have questions, you can go to the SASSA office where you applied.
   • Bring your application receipt or reference slip for quicker help.

What the Status Might Show:

• Pending – Your application is still being processed.
• Approved – Your application has been accepted, and payment will start soon.
• Declined – Your application was unsuccessful. You can appeal the decision.

What Happens if Your Application is Declined?

If your application for the care dependency grant is declined, don’t lose hope. SASSA may reject applications for various reasons, but you have the right to understand why and to appeal the decision if you believe it was unfair.

Common Reasons for a Declined Application

1. The medical assessment does not support eligibility
   The doctor may decide that the child’s disability is not severe or permanent enough to meet the requirements.
2. You do not meet the means test criteria
   If your income is too high, SASSA may decline the application (this does not apply to foster parents).
3. Missing or incorrect documents
   Incomplete paperwork or incorrect details can lead to automatic rejection.
4. The child is in full-time care at a state institution
   If the child lives permanently in a government facility, the grant is not applicable.

What to Do if Your Application is Declined

1. Request a Written Reason from SASSA
   You have the right to ask for the official reason your care dependency grant application was declined. This will help you understand what needs to be corrected.
2. Submit an Appeal Within 90 Days
   If you disagree with the decision, you can lodge an appeal in writing at your local SASSA office. The appeal must be submitted within 90 days of the rejection.
3. Provide Additional Information if Needed
   If your application was declined due to missing documents or unclear medical reports, make sure to gather the correct paperwork before appealing.
4. Follow Up Regularly
   Appeals may take several weeks or months. You can check the status by calling SASSA or visiting the office where you submitted your appeal.

Helpful Tip:

You can get support or advice from a social worker or legal aid centre if you’re unsure how to appeal. These services are often free.

Important Things to Remember

Before and after applying for the care dependency grant, there are several key points to keep in mind. These reminders will help you avoid delays, keep your grant active, and stay updated with SASSA’s rules.

Key Points About the Care Dependency Grant

1. The Grant Is Reviewed Periodically
   SASSA may request updated medical or financial information to confirm that you still qualify. Always respond to review requests on time.
2. Notify SASSA About Any Changes
   If your child’s condition improves, your income changes, or you move to a new address, you must inform SASSA. Failure to update your details may result in suspension or cancellation of the care dependency grant.
3. You Cannot Receive Conflicting Grants
   You can’t receive the care dependency grant for the same child if that child is already receiving another full-time care grant (e.g., a grant-in-aid under certain conditions).
4. Keep All Documents Safe
   Store your grant-related documents, reference numbers, and medical assessments in a safe place. You may need them during reviews or if you need to reapply.
5. The Grant Ends When the Child Turns 18
   The care dependency grant is only valid until the child reaches 18 years old. After that, the child may apply for a disability grant, if still eligible.
6. Foster Parents Have Special Conditions
   Foster parents do not go through the means test, but must provide valid court orders and maintain legal guardianship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can a foster parent apply for the care dependency grant?

Yes. Foster parents can apply for the care dependency grant if they have a valid court order placing the child in their care. Unlike biological parents, foster parents are not subject to a means test.

2. Can both parents apply for the grant?

No. Only one caregiver — either the biological parent, foster parent, or legal guardian — can apply and receive the care dependency grant for a child.

3. Is the care dependency grant backdated if approved?

Yes. If your application is approved, payment is backdated to the date you submitted your application, not the date of approval.

4. Can the grant be paid into my bank account?

Yes. You can choose to receive your care dependency grant via direct deposit into your personal bank account. Just provide valid banking details during the application process.

5. What happens when the child turns 18?

The care dependency grant ends when the child turns 18. If the individual still has a permanent disability, they may apply for the SASSA disability grant as an adult.

6. Can I reapply if my first application was declined?

Yes. You can appeal the decision within 90 days of rejection or reapply if your situation has changed or if you now meet the requirements.

7. How long does it take to process a care dependency grant application?

It can take up to 3 months for SASSA to process your application. If approved, you will receive backdated payments from the date of your application.

Conclusion

The care dependency grant is a vital source of financial support for families caring for children with severe disabilities. Understanding who qualifies, how much the grant pays, and the application process can make a significant difference in accessing this assistance smoothly.

Remember to prepare all required documents carefully, apply at your nearest SASSA office, and keep track of your application status. If your application is declined, don’t hesitate to appeal or seek help from social workers or legal aid services.

By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your child receives the support they deserve through the care dependency grant. Start your application today and take an important step toward easing the financial burden of caregiving.