Disability Grant in South Africa: A Complete Guide for 2025

Living with a disability can present significant challenges, especially when it prevents a person from working and earning a stable income. To support South Africans in this situation, the government offers the Disability Grant a vital financial lifeline for adults who are permanently or temporarily unable to work due to a disability.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Disability Grant in South Africa for 2025 — including eligibility, the application process, how much you’ll receive, and important links to apply or check your status.

What Is the Disability Grant?

The Disability Grant is a monthly social assistance payment provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). It is intended for adults between the ages of 18 and 59 who are medically certified as disabled and are unable to work and earn an income due to their disability.

There are two types of Disability Grants:

Permanent Disability Grant – for long-term or lifelong conditions (valid for over 12 months).
Temporary Disability Grant – for short-term conditions (valid for 6–12 months).

🔗 Official SASSA Disability Grant page:
https://www.sassa.gov.za/disability-grant

Who Qualifies for the Disability Grant?

To be eligible for the Disability Grant in South Africa, the applicant must meet both medical and financial (means test) requirements.

General Eligibility Criteria:

Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
Must be 18 to 59 years old.
Must be medically assessed as disabled by a SASSA-approved doctor.
Must not earn more than the income limit specified by the means test.
Must not receive another social grant for yourself (e.g., old age or war veteran’s grant).
Must not be cared for in a state institution (e.g., hospital, rehab centre).

What Is the Means Test?

The means test determines if you qualify for the grant based on your income and assets. The government wants to ensure that the grant goes to those most in need.

2025 Income Threshold:

Single applicant: Must earn less than R95,400 per year (approx. R7,950 per month).
Married couple: Combined income must be less than R190,800 per year.

Asset Limits:

Single person: Must own less than R1,372,800 in assets.
Married person: Combined assets must be under R2,745,600.

If you exceed these limits, your application will be declined.

How Much Is the Disability Grant in 2025?

As of 2025, the monthly Disability Grant amount is:

R2,090 per month

This figure is reviewed annually and may change depending on the national budget and inflation.

Documents Required for Application

Before visiting your nearest SASSA office, make sure you prepare the following documents:

Your South African ID (or refugee status permit)
Medical report from a SASSA-approved doctor (not older than 3 months)
Proof of income, such as bank statements or pay slips
Proof of assets (e.g., property ownership or investment details)
Marriage certificate (if married)
Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill or letter from a tribal authority)
Bank account details (if you want the grant paid into your account)

The medical assessment does not guarantee grant approval — the final decision lies with SASSA.

How to Apply for the Disability Grant

The application must be done in person at your nearest SASSA office.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

Visit a SASSA office near you.
Request a Disability Grant application form and complete it.
Undergo a medical assessment with a doctor designated by SASSA.
Submit all required documents.
Receive a receipt or reference number as proof of your application.

SASSA will process your application within 90 days, and you’ll be notified of the outcome by SMS or letter.

🔗 Find your nearest SASSA office:
https://www.sassa.gov.za/Pages/Offices.aspx

How Is the Disability Grant Paid?

Once approved, you will receive your grant through one of the following methods:

Direct deposit into your bank account
SASSA Gold Card (usable at ATMs and participating retailers)
Cash pay points (especially in rural or remote areas)

What If Your Application Is Denied?

If your Disability Grant application is rejected, SASSA must give you a written explanation. You have the right to appeal the decision within 90 days of receiving the notice.

Appeal Process:

Write a formal appeal letter to the Department of Social Development.
Include supporting documentation (such as medical reports or income details).
Await feedback (this can take several weeks or months).

🔗 Department of Social Development:
https://www.dsd.gov.za

When Does the Disability Grant Stop?

The grant may be suspended or cancelled if any of the following occurs:

Your disability improves, and you are able to work again.
You are admitted into a state-funded institution.
You fail to attend a medical reassessment when requested.
You don’t update your details (e.g., change of address or bank).
You are found to have provided false information or committed fraud.

If the grant is temporary, it will automatically expire after 6–12 months, and you will need to reapply if you still qualify.

Can You Work and Still Receive the Disability Grant?

Yes — you can earn an income up to the threshold set by the means test and still receive the Disability Grant. However, if your income increases and exceeds the threshold, your grant may be reviewed or suspended.

Always inform SASSA of any changes in your financial or medical situation.

How to Check Your Disability Grant Status

You can check the status of your Disability Grant online:

🔗 Check your grant status here:
https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status

You’ll need:

Your ID number
Cell phone number used during application

Final Thoughts

The Disability Grant in South Africa provides essential financial support for working-age adults who are unable to earn a living due to a serious medical condition or disability. Whether your disability is temporary or permanent, this grant can help you cover basic living costs while you focus on recovery or long-term care.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, apply as soon as possible and ensure your medical and financial documents are in order. This grant can offer you dignity, support, and a lifeline when you need it most.

Useful Contacts

SASSA Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
SASSA WhatsApp Support: 082 046 8553
Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za

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