SASSA Disability Grant FAQ
Last updated: 14 April 2026
SASSA disability grant FAQ: Who qualifies? What medical assessment is needed? How much is the grant? Temporary vs permanent disability explained.
What is the SASSA disability grant and who qualifies?
The SASSA disability grant is a monthly social grant for South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees who are between 18 and 59 years old and have a disability that prevents them from working or limits their ability to work. You must pass a means test (income below R8 990/month for a single person or R17 980/month combined for a married couple, and assets below R1 524 600 single or R3 049 200 married, as set by SASSA) and be assessed by a SASSA-appointed medical practitioner or medical board to confirm your disability.
What is the disability assessment process?
When you apply for a disability grant, SASSA arranges a medical assessment with their appointed doctor or medical board. The doctor examines you and completes a medical report detailing the nature and severity of your disability, whether it is temporary or permanent, and how it affects your ability to work. You may need to bring existing medical records, X-rays, or specialist reports to support your assessment. If your own doctor has already provided a detailed report, bring it along — but SASSA may still require their own assessment.
What is the difference between a temporary and permanent disability grant?
A temporary disability grant is awarded when your disability is expected to last for a defined period (usually 6 or 12 months). It is reviewed at the end of the period, and you must undergo a new medical assessment to determine if the grant should be extended. A permanent disability grant is awarded when the medical board determines that your disability is unlikely to improve. Permanent grants are still subject to periodic review by SASSA.
How much is the SASSA disability grant per month?
As of 2026, the SASSA disability grant pays R2 400 per month (from April 2026, per the National Budget). The exact amount is adjusted annually in the national budget, usually announced in February and effective from April. The full amount is paid if your income is below the threshold. If you earn some income but still qualify, the grant amount may be reduced proportionally.
What documents do I need to apply for a disability grant?
You need your original South African ID document (Smart ID card or ID book), the completed SASSA affidavit (Annexure I-2), a medical or disability assessment report, proof of residential address (utility bill, affidavit, or tribal authority letter), proof of income or a sworn statement of unemployment, banking details or SASSA card, and a marriage certificate if applicable. If you are divorced or widowed, bring the decree of divorce or death certificate.
What is the SASSA affidavit (Annexure I-2) and why do I need it?
The SASSA affidavit (Annexure I-2) is a sworn statement that forms part of your disability grant application. It declares your personal details, marital status, sources of income, and assets under oath before a Commissioner of Oaths. SASSA uses this information to verify your eligibility through the means test. Providing false information on the affidavit is a criminal offence.
What happens if my disability grant application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, SASSA must provide written reasons. Common reasons include not meeting the means test threshold, the medical assessment finding insufficient disability, missing documents, or an incomplete affidavit. You have the right to appeal the decision within 90 days by writing to the Minister of Social Development through your local SASSA office. You may also request a review of the medical assessment.
Can I work while receiving a disability grant?
It depends on the nature of your disability and the type of grant. If you earn income, it may affect your eligibility under the means test. If your earnings exceed the threshold (R8 990/month single or R17 980/month combined for married), your grant will be suspended. Some temporary disability grants are specifically linked to your inability to work, so returning to full-time employment would end the grant.
How long does it take to process a disability grant application?
SASSA aims to process disability grant applications within 30 to 90 days. However, the medical assessment scheduling can add to the timeline. If SASSA cannot finalise your application within 90 days, you have the right to enquire about the delay at your local SASSA office. Once approved, grant payments are backdated to the date of application.
What is the role of the medical board in disability grant assessments?
The SASSA medical board consists of healthcare professionals appointed to assess whether applicants meet the disability criteria for the grant. They review medical evidence, conduct examinations, and determine the type (temporary or permanent) and duration of the disability. Their assessment is the key factor in SASSA's decision to approve or reject a disability grant application. If you disagree with the board's finding, you can appeal.
Is my personal information safe when using FillMeIn to fill the affidavit?
Yes. FillMeIn processes all your data entirely on your device. Your personal information, ID number, disability details, income, and asset information never leave your phone or computer — nothing is sent to our servers or stored in the cloud. This privacy-first approach means your sensitive health and financial information stays under your control at all times.