The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is a national agency of the South African government created in April 2005 to administer social security services, including payments, on behalf of the Department of Social Development (DSD)[1].
What is SASSA all about? This is an agency that was set up by the South African government in the year 200. Its main objective was to offer social security services on behalf of the Department of Social Development. SASSA plays a big role in disbursing and paying these grants to eligible beneficiaries,
SASSA in itself distributes social grants to different types of people who fall under different categories. The grants are given to
- Old people
- People with disability grants
- Grants for war veterans
- Grants for people in dependence
- Grants for foster children
- Child support grants
- Grant-in-aid
- Social relief of distress.
How To Apply For SASSA Grants
There are a number of ways that you can use to apply for SASSA grants.
One of the ways is to pay a visit to the nearest SASSA office. You can also contact them through their official telephone number which is 0800 6010 for information on pay-out dates and qualifying rules for all government grants
Part of the application is that you will need to have your ID with you before you can make your application. You might also need to have a sworn statement that is signed by someone who is known who can vouch for you.
SASSA also uses biometric technology to verify the identity of recipients and prevent fraud
Eligibility Criteria
Like I mentioned earlier, the eligibility criteria that allows you to enjoy social benefits from SASSA will depend on the specific grant you wish to apply for. Here are the general eligibility criteria for some of the SASSA grants:
1. Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant, and War Veterans Grant:
Your total annual income cannot be more than R185,040 (or R15,420 monthly). Also, the annual income limit for single people is R92,520 (or R7,710 per month).
2. Child Support Grant
For a child support grant, you as the applicant must be the primary caregiver of the child/children concerned. Also, the applicant and spouse must meet the set standards of the Means Test[6].
3. Care Dependency Grant
For a care dependency grant, you as the applicant must be the primary caregiver of the child/children concerned. You and your spouse must also meet the set standards of the Means Test[6].
4. Foster Child Grant:
The child in question must be under the age of 18 months. Also, the foster parent must be a South African citizen, a refugee who is living in South Africa or a permanent resident of South Africa.
5. Grant-in-Aid:
If you are applying for this, you must be in receipt of either an Older Persons grant, Disability grant, or War Veteran’s grant. You will also be required to regularly attend by another person owing to his/her physical or mental disabilities[6].
I would like to state that these are general eligibility criteria for each type of grant you are looking for and that you may be asked to give more information depending on the type of grant you are looking for.
Minimum Age Requirements
The minimum age requirement varies depending on the type of SASSA grant you are interested in. As an example, if you want to apply for the Child Support Grant, the requirements are that the child must be under the age of 18 years old[2][7].
On the other hand, to qualify for the Older Persons Grant, you cannot be less than 60 years old[4]. For those interested in the Disability Grant, he or she must be between 18 and 59 years old[3][8].
How Often Are SASSA Grants Sent Out
SASSA distributes the grants at the start of each month. You can prepare yourself early and financially plan yourself better by knowing the payment dates.
The payment dates for social grants are in most cases released by SASSA in advance, allowing beneficiaries to plan for the receipt of their funds. Its advisable for you not to rush to withdraw cash on the first day, as the money will remain in your accounts until you need it.
Its also important to note that the payment are made through various methods which include direct bank deposits, cash payments at designated pay points, or other electronic transfer methods.
Importance of SASSA Grants
Social grants such as SASSa play a critical role in society. They help address the various social economic challenges that South Africans face. The grants go a long way in improving the well-being of families and homes.
Tackling Poverty
SASSA grants help reduce the burden that comes with poverty. The grants give financial assistance to people who are facing economic hardships by meeting basic needs that people require such as food, clothing and shelter.
Assist Caregivers
SASSA grants such as foster child grants help ensure that caregivers can provide a stable and nurturing environment.
Improve Social Well-Being
Sassa grants contribute to overall social well-being by addressing immediate financial needs and allowing individuals and families to lead more stable, healthier, and dignified lives.