The Care Dependency Grant (CDG) is a vital social assistance grant designed to support caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require permanent care at home. The grant helps families cover additional costs related to medical care, specialised equipment, and daily support needs.
The grant is administered by the South African Social Security Agency, which manages social grants across South Africa.
Here is a complete guide to the Care Dependency Grant requirements, including eligibility criteria and the application process.
What Is the Care Dependency Grant?
The Care Dependency Grant is a monthly payment made to a parent, foster parent, or primary caregiver of a child with a severe disability who needs full-time care.
The grant is paid to the caregiver, not directly to the child.
Who Qualifies for the Care Dependency Grant?
To qualify, the following requirements must be met:
1. Age of the Child
- The child must be under 18 years old
2. Medical Assessment
- The child must be diagnosed with a severe, permanent disability
- A medical assessment by a state-appointed doctor is required
- The disability must require full-time care at home
3. Citizenship and Residency
- The caregiver and child must be:
- South African citizens, permanent residents, or recognised refugees
- Living in South Africa
4. Means Test (Income Assessment)
- The caregiver must pass the means test
- Income of the parent(s) or caregiver is assessed
- The means test does not apply to foster parents
5. Institutional Care
- The child must not be permanently cared for in a state institution
What Documents Are Required?
Applicants must provide:
- Valid South African ID (caregiver)
- Child’s birth certificate
- Medical assessment report confirming severe disability
- Proof of income (if applicable)
- Proof of marital status (if applicable)
- Banking details for payment
If some documents are missing, SASSA may allow affidavits in certain situations.
How to Apply for the Care Dependency Grant
Applications must be made in person at a SASSA office.
Steps include:
- Visit the nearest SASSA office
- Complete the application form with assistance from a SASSA official
- Undergo medical assessment by an approved doctor
- Receive a receipt or reference number
There is no application fee.
What Happens After You Apply?
- SASSA verifies documents and reviews the medical report
- Processing may take several weeks
- If approved, payment is backdated to the application date
If declined, the caregiver has the right to appeal.
How Much Is the Care Dependency Grant?
The Care Dependency Grant is paid monthly and is typically aligned with the amount of the Disability Grant. The exact amount may change depending on annual government budget adjustments.
Grant Reviews and Expiry
The grant:
- May be reviewed periodically
- Ends when the child turns 18 years old
- May stop if the child’s condition improves significantly
When the child turns 18, they may qualify for a Disability Grant instead, subject to assessment.
Important Things to Remember
- The disability must be severe and permanent
- The grant supports children requiring full-time care
- Changes in income or care arrangements must be reported
- Keep copies of all documents submitted
Final Word
The Care Dependency Grant provides essential financial relief to families caring for children with severe disabilities. Understanding the requirements, especially the medical assessment and means test, is critical to a successful application.
Caregivers are encouraged to ensure all documents are complete and attend scheduled medical assessments promptly to avoid delays in receiving support.