The Care Dependency Grant (CDG) is a monthly payment from the South African government for the care of severely disabled children. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) oversees this grant under the Department of Social Development.
The purpose of the Care Dependency Grant is to support lower-income families caring for children with disabilities requiring permanent care or support services. This article explains eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, grant payment details, and more key aspects regarding this assistance program.
Who Can Qualify for the Care Dependency Grant?
The following criteria must be met to qualify for South Africa’s Care Dependency Grant as a caregiver:
Child Requirements:
- South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee under 18 years old
- Severe mental or physical disability confirmed by medical professionals
The child’s disability must require and be receiving permanent, full-time care and supervision. This can cover conditions like:
- Severe Cerebral Palsy
- Down Syndrome
- Physical disability with bowel/bladder incontinence
- Severe epilepsy
- Intellectual disability with IQ 35 or less
Primary Caregiver Requirements:
- South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee
- Relative (including foster parents) caring for the disabled child
- Child must reside with caregiver
The monthly Care Dependency Grant amount 2023 is R1,945 per eligible child, paid to the qualifying caregiver/guardian.
When to Apply for the Care Dependency Grant
Submit applications before the disabled child’s 1st birthday to receive the full grant amount starting from birth.
If applied for after the child has turned 1 year old, the grant will only start from the date the application gets approved. Missing out on eligible assistance due to late applications.
How to Apply for the South African CDG
Applying through a SASSA office is advisable for first-time applicants and those needing application assistance. Here are the main steps:
1. Book an Appointment
Call the SASSA CDG toll-free line or visit your nearest regional SASSA office to schedule an appointment. Request their Application Pack for the Care Dependency Grant.
2. Complete Application Forms
Fill in the application forms you receive with the child and caregiver’s personal details, financial situation and consent for disability assessment.
3. Gather Supporting Documents
Have the following documents ready for submission with your application:
- Child’s Birth Certificate
- Child and Caregiver’s Identity Documents
- Proof of Residence (utility bill, rental agreement showing cohabitation)
- Caregiver’s Bank Statement
- Medical Assessment Forms completed by doctors/pediatricians detailing child’s disability, need for specialized care and permanence assessment.
4. Attend Verification Interview
A SASSA agent will review your application at the agreed appointment time to confirm eligibility and validate submitted documents.
5. Track Status Online
If approved, use your ID number and grant number to check your CDG status online instead of revisiting SASSA offices.
How Much is the Care Dependency Grant?
As of 2023, the value of the Care Dependency Grant is R1,945 per month for each eligible child being cared for.
This amount gets paid directly into the nominated primary caregiver’s bank account on a regular monthly basis. Payment dates align with other SASSA grants.
Renewing the Care Dependency Grant
The Care Dependency Grant requires renewing upon the child beneficiary reaching 18 years old through submitting updated medical reports. This confirms their ongoing eligibility despite being legally an adult.
You can download the Application for Renewal form directly from the SASSA website when needed instead of visiting an office. Submit this along with updated Pediatrician reports to continue receiving the same level of assistance.
Common Questions Regarding the CDG
Here are answers around some frequently asked questions about South Africa’s Care Dependency Grant:
Can another person apply for my child?
Yes – parents, foster parents, relatives or siblings caring for the child can complete applications as the primary caregiver. The child must reside with whoever is applying.
What if my application gets declined?
Firstly request the exact reasons for being declined and determine if they can be resolved, such as providing additional medical evidence related to eligibility criteria not being met initially. You can reapply or file an appeal if your situation does qualify within CDG guidelines.
When do payments start after approval?
Monthly payments into the applicant’s bank account begin the month after finalizing the verification process. Backdated amounts to the application date may also be included.
Where else can I get assistance?
If you need help understanding eligibility, gathering medical reports or forms, submitting an appeal etc, visit your nearest SASSA office for additional guidance or call the CDG toll-free phone line.
Conclusion
The Care Dependency Grant enables relatives and foster parents caring for seriously disabled children requiring permanent assistance to receive monthly financial support, subject to meeting specific criteria.
SASSA aims to facilitate access through simplified application forms, regional offices offering help and an online portal for checking your status.
Caregivers unable to work full-time due to child care commitments can gain some income protection this way. Ultimately the Care Dependency Grant provides steady assistance to impoverished households trying their best to support the needs of severely disabled dependents.
