What is the SASSA Grant in Aid?

The Grant in Aid is an additional social grant paid by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to people who already receive the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, or War Veterans Grant and who require full-time attendance by another person due to their physical or mental condition. It provides extra financial assistance to cover the cost of a caregiver. The grant amount is reviewed annually by the Minister of Social Development.

Who qualifies for the Grant in Aid?

To qualify for the Grant in Aid you must: (1) already be receiving the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, or War Veterans Grant; (2) require full-time attendance by another person due to a physical or mental disability or condition; (3) be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee; (4) not already be receiving the Grant in Aid; and (5) not be cared for in a state institution (e.g. government-funded old age home, psychiatric hospital, or care facility). A medical assessment confirming the need for full-time attendance is required as part of the application.

How much is the Grant in Aid in 2026?

The Grant in Aid is R580 per month (from April 2026, as announced in the National Budget). This is an additional top-up payment on top of your existing grant (Old Age, Disability, or War Veterans Grant). The amount is adjusted annually by the Minister of Social Development. The grant is paid monthly on the same date as your primary grant.

What documents do I need to apply for the Grant in Aid?

You need: (1) your original South African ID document (ID book or Smart ID card); (2) proof that you are already receiving the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, or War Veterans Grant; (3) a medical report from a medical practitioner confirming that you need full-time attendance by another person; (4) proof of residence such as a utility bill or affidavit; and (5) the caregiver's ID document if applicable. You must also complete the Grant in Aid affidavit (Annexure I-7), which must be commissioned by a Commissioner of Oaths.

Where do I apply for the Grant in Aid?

Apply at your nearest SASSA office. You can find your nearest office on the SASSA website or by calling 0800 60 10 11. Take all your original documents plus copies. The affidavit (Annexure I-7) must be signed before a Commissioner of Oaths — this can be done at a South African Police Service (SAPS) station free of charge before you visit SASSA.

What is the Annexure I-7 affidavit?

The Annexure I-7 is the official sworn affidavit required when applying for the SASSA Grant in Aid. It is a legal declaration confirming your personal details, residential address, marital status, and the circumstances supporting your need for full-time care. The affidavit must be signed in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths (typically at a SAPS station) and stamped with their official seal. FillMeIn helps you fill this form correctly before you visit the Commissioner.

How long does it take SASSA to process a Grant in Aid application?

SASSA may take up to 90 days to process a Grant in Aid application. Processing times vary depending on your local SASSA office workload, whether a medical assessment needs to be arranged, and the completeness of your documentation. If your application is incomplete, it will be returned and the processing period restarts when you resubmit. You can check your application status by calling SASSA at 0800 60 10 11.

Can someone else apply for the Grant in Aid on my behalf?

Yes. If you are unable to visit the SASSA office in person due to your physical or mental condition, an appointed procurator (representative) can apply on your behalf. The procurator must have a valid ID, a letter of authority signed by you (or a court order if you are unable to sign), and all the required documents for the application. SASSA may still require a home visit or medical assessment to verify your condition.

What happens if my Grant in Aid application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, SASSA must provide you with written reasons for the rejection. Common reasons include: not currently receiving an eligible primary grant, the medical assessment not confirming the need for full-time attendance, missing or expired documents, already receiving the Grant in Aid, or being cared for in a state institution. You have the right to appeal the decision within 90 days of receiving the rejection notice. Appeals are submitted to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA).

Do I need a medical assessment for the Grant in Aid?

Yes. A medical report or assessment confirming that you require full-time attendance by another person is a key requirement. This assessment is usually done by a medical practitioner and must detail your physical or mental condition and explain why you need constant care. In some cases, SASSA may arrange for their own medical assessment to verify the information provided.

Can I receive the Grant in Aid together with my Old Age Grant?

Yes. The Grant in Aid is specifically designed to be received in addition to your primary grant. It is not a separate standalone grant — it is a supplementary payment for people who already receive the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, or War Veterans Grant. Both grants are paid into the same account on the same payment date each month.

Is my personal information safe when using FillMeIn to fill the Grant in Aid affidavit?

Yes. FillMeIn processes all your data entirely on your device. Your personal information, ID number, medical details, and all form data never leave your phone or computer — nothing is sent to our servers or stored in the cloud. This privacy-first approach means your sensitive information stays under your control at all times.

SASSA Affidavit — Grant in Aid

South African Social Security Agency · Verified 6 May 2026