Many South Africans rely on social grants to support themselves and their families. While you may think you already know all the available grants, there are some important details and lesser-known benefits that could make a big difference in your financial situation.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is responsible for administering social grants to qualifying individuals across the country. These grants are designed to assist vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, people living with disabilities, and low-income households.
In this detailed guide, we explore 7 main SASSA grants available in 2026, plus a bonus grant that many people are still talking about. Make sure you read until the end so you don’t miss important information that could help you or someone you know.
Table of Contents
- Old Age Grant / Older Persons Grant
- Disability Grant
- Child Support Grant
- Foster Child Grant
- Care Dependency Grant
- Grant-in-Aid
- War Veterans Grant
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
How Much Are These Grants in 2026?
Worthy to Note
Online Application Channels
How to Contact SASSA
- Old Age Grant / Older Persons Grant
The Old Age Grant, also known as the Older Persons Grant, is one of the most widely accessed grants in South Africa. It is designed to support elderly citizens who no longer have a stable income.
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Who qualifies:
- South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees
- Must be 60 years or older
- Must pass the means test (income and asset threshold)
- Must not be receiving another social grant for themselves
This grant helps older persons cover basic living expenses such as food, transport, and healthcare.
- Disability Grant
The Disability Grant is provided to individuals who are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability.
Who qualifies:
- Individuals medically certified as disabled
- Disability can be temporary or permanent
- Must be between ages 18 and 59
- Must meet the means test requirements
Applicants are required to undergo a medical assessment to confirm their condition before approval.
- Child Support Grant
The Child Support Grant is one of the most important grants for families in South Africa. It supports primary caregivers who are responsible for children under the age of 18.
Who qualifies:
- Primary caregivers (parents, grandparents, or guardians)
- Child must be under 18 years old
- Applicant must meet income requirements
This grant helps cover essential needs such as food, clothing, and school expenses.
- Foster Child Grant
The Foster Child Grant is provided to foster parents who are legally caring for children placed in their custody by a court.
Who qualifies:
- Foster parents with a valid court order
- Child must be officially placed under foster care
This grant ensures that foster children receive proper care and support in their new homes.
- Care Dependency Grant
This is one of the most important but often overlooked grants. It is specifically for caregivers of children with severe disabilities.
Who qualifies:
- Caregivers of children under 18 with severe disabilities
- Child must require full-time care at home
- Must meet the means test
This grant provides financial relief to families who need to provide constant care and support.
- Grant-in-Aid
The Grant-in-Aid is an additional grant provided to individuals who already receive a social grant but need full-time assistance due to their condition.
Who qualifies:
- Must already be receiving a SASSA grant
- Must require full-time care from another person
This grant helps cover the cost of hiring or supporting a caregiver.
- War Veterans Grant
This grant is specifically for individuals who served in the Second World War or the Korean War.
Who qualifies:
- Must be 60 years or older OR disabled
- Must have served in qualifying wars
- Must meet the means test
Although this grant applies to a small group, it remains an important part of South Africa’s social support system.
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, often known as the R370 grant, was introduced to assist unemployed individuals and those with no source of income.
Who qualifies:
- Unemployed individuals
- No other source of income or social grant
- Must meet eligibility criteria set by SASSA
This grant is temporary and may change depending on government decisions and national conditions.
How Much Are These Grants in 2026?
SASSA grants are reviewed and usually increased annually, often in April.
Estimated amounts for 2026:
- Older Persons Grant: ± R2,180 per month
- Disability Grant: ± R2,180 per month
- Child Support Grant: ± R530 per month
- Foster Child Grant: ± R1,180 per month
- Care Dependency Grant: ± R2,180 per month
- Grant-in-Aid: ± R530 per month
- War Veterans Grant: ± R2,200 per month
- SRD Grant: R370 per month
Note: These amounts may change based on government budget announcements.
Worthy to Note
- All SASSA grants are subject to strict eligibility criteria
- Most grants require applicants to pass a means test
- Applicants must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees
- You cannot receive multiple grants for yourself at the same time (except Grant-in-Aid)
Always ensure that your information is accurate when applying to avoid delays or rejection.
Online Application Channels
SASSA has made it easier for people to apply online, especially for the SRD Grant.
For SRD R370 Grant:
- Visit the official SASSA SRD website
- Complete the online application form
- Submit required details and documents
For other grants:
- Visit your nearest SASSA office
OR - Check the official SASSA website for online application options
How to Contact SASSA
If you need help or have questions, you can contact SASSA through the following:
- Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Visit your nearest SASSA office
Final Thoughts
SASSA grants play a vital role in supporting millions of South Africans. Whether you are caring for a child, living with a disability, unemployed, or elderly, there may be a grant available to assist you.
It is important to stay informed about the latest updates, requirements, and application processes to ensure you receive the support you qualify for.
If you or someone you know may benefit from these grants, take action today and apply through the correct channels.
Important Note
Always apply through official SASSA platforms. Keep your personal information safe and avoid sharing it with unknown individuals.
Scam Warning
- SASSA does NOT charge any application fees
- Do NOT pay anyone to apply on your behalf
- Only trust official SASSA communication channels
Source Base
This information is based on official SASSA guidelines and publicly available government updates for 2026.
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