The Disability Grant is a vital source of financial support for South Africans who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. Many applicants and beneficiaries often have questions about eligibility, medical reviews, and payment processes. This guide clearly explains how the SASSA Disability Grant works, who qualifies, and what to expect regarding reviews and payments.
What Is the Disability Grant?
The Disability Grant is a monthly social grant provided to adults who are medically assessed as unfit to work because of a disability. It is administered by the South African Social Security Agency to help cover basic living expenses.
The grant may be awarded as either:
- Temporary Disability Grant (6 to 12 months), or
- Permanent Disability Grant (reviewed periodically)
“Permanent” does not always mean lifelong and may still be reviewed by SASSA.
Disability Grant Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Disability Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement
- Must be between 18 and 59 years old
Citizenship and Residency
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognised refugee
- Must be living in South Africa
Medical Assessment
- Must undergo a medical assessment by a doctor appointed or recognised by SASSA
- The disability must prevent you from working for more than six months
Means Test
The Disability Grant is means-tested. This means your income and assets must fall below a specified threshold.
You may qualify if:
- Your income is below the annual limit set by government
- Your assets fall within the approved range
Other Conditions
- You must not be receiving another personal social grant
- You must not be fully cared for in a state-funded institution
Temporary vs Permanent Disability Grant
Temporary Disability Grant
- Approved for 6 to 12 months
- Paid while the disability is expected to improve
- Must be reviewed before expiry
Permanent Disability Grant
- Approved when the disability is long-term
- Still subject to periodic medical reviews
- Can be suspended if medical or financial circumstances change
Disability Grant Reviews Explained
SASSA conducts regular reviews to confirm that beneficiaries still qualify for the grant. Reviews may include:
- Medical reassessments
- Income and asset checks
- Verification of personal details
You will be notified in advance of a review. Failure to attend a scheduled review may result in suspension of the grant.
Disability Grant Payments
When Are Payments Made?
Disability Grant payments are made monthly, usually in the first week of each month. Payment dates are announced in advance and adjusted if they fall on weekends or public holidays.
How Are Payments Made?
Payments can be received via:
- SASSA card
- Bank account
- Approved retail outlets
The grant amount is determined annually during the national budget and may increase from time to time.
What Happens If Your Grant Is Declined or Suspended?
If your Disability Grant application is declined, or your grant is suspended, you have the right to:
- Request reasons for the decision
- Submit an appeal within the prescribed timeframe
- Update medical or financial information if circumstances have changed
Appeals are reviewed independently, and successful appeals may result in backdated payments.
Important Things to Remember
- Always attend medical reviews when requested
- Keep your contact and banking details updated
- Grant amounts may change annually
- Temporary grants must be reviewed before expiry
- You can appeal if your application is declined
Final Thoughts
The Disability Grant plays a critical role in supporting individuals who are unable to work due to disability. Understanding eligibility requirements, review processes, and payment methods can help prevent delays or suspensions. If you believe you qualify, ensure your documents are complete, attend all reviews, and stay informed through official SASSA channels.