SASSA Status Check for Care Dependency Grant [2025]

Have you ever wondered if financial assistance is available to ease the burden of caregiving? Raising a child with a severe disability comes with increased medical costs, specialized education, and continuous care expenses.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides the Care Dependency Grant, a lifeline for caregivers who need financial support to ensure their child’s well-being. In this guide, you’ll learn what the grant is, who qualifies, how to apply, and how to check your application status online.

SASSA Care Dependency Grant [Status, Eligibility, Application]

The Care Dependency Grant is a monthly financial assistance provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to caregivers of children with severe disabilities. It helps cover the additional costs of caring for children with special needs, ensuring their health, education, and overall well-being.

What is the Care Dependency Grant?

The Care Dependency Grant is a monthly financial aid given to caregivers of children with permanent and severe physical or mental disabilities. These disabilities can include cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism, or severe intellectual disabilities.

The grant helps caregivers cover:

• Medical expenses (doctor visits, therapy, medication, and assistive devices)
• Specialized education costs (tuition, transport, and learning aids)
• Daily living expenses (food, clothing, and hygiene products)

To qualify, the caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.

Legal Framework and Regulations

The Care Dependency Grant is regulated under South Africa’s Social Assistance Act (Act No. 13 of 2004). SASSA oversees the administration and ensures compliance with the eligibility criteria.

Key legal aspects include:

• Income thresholds for applicants
• Medical assessments for disability verification
• Periodic reviews to ensure continued eligibility

Key Benefits of the Care Dependency Grant

1. Financial Support

Caregivers receive R2,190 per month (as of October 2024) to help cover extra expenses.

2. Access to Healthcare

The grant helps cover costs for medical treatments, therapy, and rehabilitation.

3. Educational Support

Funds can be used for specialized schooling, transport, and learning aids.

4. Child Welfare Improvement

Ensures that children receive specialized care and services to enhance their quality of life.

Eligibility for the Care Dependency Grant

To qualify, both the caregiver and the child must meet specific eligibility criteria:

Caregiver’s Eligibility:

• Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
• Must be the legal guardian or biological parent
• Must meet SASSA’s income threshold (means test applied)

Child’s Eligibility:

• Must be under 18 years old
• Must have a permanent, severe disability
• Must have a medical assessment report confirming the disability

How to Apply for the Care Dependency Grant?

Follow these 5 simple steps to apply:

1. Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office
   • Carry required documents such as medical reports and proof of income.
2. Complete the Application Form
   • Fill out personal and household income details.
3. Submit Required Documents
   • ID documents (caregiver and child)
   • Birth certificate of the child
   • Medical assessment from a registered practitioner
   • Proof of income
4. Processing and Approval
   • SASSA will review the application and notify you of the outcome.
5. Receive Payment
   • If approved, the grant is paid monthly via bank deposit, SASSA pay points, or Post Office.

How to Check Your Care Dependency Grant Status Online?

Follow these steps to check your grant status online:

1. Go to the SASSA Website – Visit https://srdcheckstatus.co.za/
2. Find the “SASSA Status Check” Section
3. Enter Your 13-Digit South African ID and Registered Cellphone Number
4. Click “Check Status”
5. Review Your Status:
   • Approved: Payment schedule provided
   • Pending: Application under review
   • Declined: Includes reason for rejection

How to Check Your SASSA Care Dependency or Child Support Grant Balance?

To check the balance of your SASSA Care Dependency or Child Support Grant, you have several convenient options:

1. USSD Code:

You can use your mobile phone to check your grant balance without needing internet access:

• Dial *120*3210# or *120*69277# on your mobile phone.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to view your balance.

This method is quick and works on any mobile device.

2. WhatsApp:

SASSA provides a WhatsApp service for balance inquiries:

• Save SASSA’s official WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553.
• Send a message with the word “SASSA” to this number.
• When prompted, reply with “Status.”
• Provide your ID number and other required details as prompted.
• Your grant balance information will be sent to you.

This method is user-friendly and accessible if you have WhatsApp installed on your smartphone.

3. Call Center:

For assistance via phone, you can contact the SASSA helpline:

• Dial the toll-free number: 0800 60 10 11.
• Follow the voice prompts to navigate to the grant inquiries section.
• Provide your ID number and any other required information to the operator.
• The operator will assist you in retrieving your grant balance.

This option allows you to speak directly with a SASSA representative for personalized assistance.

Please ensure that you have your South African ID number and any other relevant personal information readily available when using these services to facilitate a smooth process.

4. Checking via ATM (For CashSend Users Only)

If you receive your Child Support Grant through CashSend, you can verify whether your payment has been processed using an ATM.

Steps to Check at an ATM:

1. Insert your SASSA card into any ATM.
2. Enter your PIN.
3. Select “Balance Inquiry” to check if your grant payment has been deposited.

Note: This method only confirms whether funds have been deposited and does not provide the status of your grant application

Grant Application Challenges and Solutions

Common Issues:

• Delays in processing due to missing documents
• Medical report disputes
• Rejection due to income exceeding limits

Solutions:

• Ensure all documents are up-to-date
• Request a medical reassessment if needed
• Appeal the decision if unfairly rejected

How to Appeal a Declined Care Dependency Grant Application?

If your application is denied, you can appeal within 90 days:

1. Submit an Appeal Letter to SASSA explaining your case.
2. Attach Additional Supporting Documents.
3. Request a Reassessment if needed.
4. Wait for Review Outcome – You will be notified once a decision is made.

Contact Information:

For more details, contact SASSA:

• Official Website: www.sassa.gov.za
• Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11

Final Thoughts

The SASSA Care Dependency Grant is a lifeline for caregivers of children with severe disabilities. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and how to check your status online, you can ensure your child gets the support they deserve.

Stay informed, keep your documents updated, and secure your child’s future today!