How Much Must You Earn to Qualify for the SASSA Grant

Are you planning to apply for a SASSA grant and wondering if your income qualifies? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, a child, or a loved one, understanding the SASSA income limits is the first step. This article gives you clear, up-to-date information about the income requirements for every SASSA grant, using easy-to-understand language and examples to help you feel confident and prepared.

Understanding the SASSA Means Test

The SASSA means test helps decide if you qualify for a grant by checking:

Your monthly or yearly income
Any valuable assets you own
Your relationship status (single or married)

This fair system ensures that financial support reaches those who truly need it. Each grant comes with its own income limits, and knowing these helps you apply the right way the first time.

Why Income Limits Matter

To qualify for any SASSA grant, your income must be within the set threshold. This rule applies to both temporary and permanent grants. Staying within these limits boosts your chance of approval and helps avoid delays or issues.

Even if your income is close to the limit, staying under it keeps you eligible and stress-free during the application process.

SASSA Income Limits by Grant

1. Child Support Grant

If you’re the primary guardian of a child:

Single guardian: Income must be below R4,000/month.
Married or joint guardians: Combined income must be under R8,000/month.

This grant helps ensure every child receives the care and support they need, regardless of the family’s financial situation.

2. Care Dependency Grant

For children with long-term medical conditions who need full-time care:

Single carer: Income should be less than R20,800/month.
Married carers: Combined monthly income should be below R41,600.

This grant supports families caring for children who require extra attention, helping them manage medical and daily needs with ease.

3. Old Age Grant

For South Africans aged 60 and above:

Single applicant: Annual income must be under R96,840 (about R8,070/month).
Married couple: Combined yearly income must be less than R193,680.

This grant provides financial peace of mind during retirement, letting seniors enjoy a stable and supported lifestyle.

4. Grant-in-Aid

For individuals who already receive a grant and need daily care from another person:

Single applicant: Income must be less than R8,070/month.
Married couple: Annual income should remain below R193,680.

With this grant, families can offer better care to loved ones needing extra support at home.

5. Disability Grant

For people unable to work due to a disability:

Single applicant: Monthly income must be under R16,140.
Married couple: Combined yearly income should stay below R193,680.

This grant gives disabled individuals the financial freedom to focus on their health and well-being.

6. Foster Child Grant

This is the only SASSA grant without an income limit.

To qualify:

You must be the legal guardian of the child.
A valid court order proving guardianship is required.

This grant is designed to support children in foster care, ensuring they have access to a safe and caring environment, regardless of the guardian’s financial standing.

7. War Veterans Grant

For veterans who served in the South African Armed Forces:

Single applicant: Must earn under R86,280/year.
Married couple: Combined income should be less than R172,560/year.

This grant honours veterans for their service by offering support tailored to their needs in later life.

SASSA’s Income Check Process

SASSA ensures fair access by checking:

Your banking and employment data
Information from government databases
Your tax and financial records, if available

This helps them deliver grants responsibly and fairly, making sure those most in need get the support they deserve.

Asset Evaluation: What SASSA Considers

SASSA may review:

Property
Vehicles
Investments
Savings accounts

If your total assets appreciate beyond the threshold, your grant may not be approved. It’s best to keep records updated and honest, so the process is smooth.

Keep These in Mind

SASSA updates income limits regularly to reflect inflation and policy changes.
All amounts are measured in South African Rand (ZAR).
Accuracy matters—stay within the required income range to avoid delays.
If you’re unsure about your current eligibility, it’s always a good idea to double-check before applying.

Quick Summary: SASSA Income Thresholds
Grant Type	Single Applicant	Married Applicants
Child Support Grant	< R4,000/month	< R8,000/month
Care Dependency Grant	< R20,800/month	< R41,600/month
Old Age Grant	< R96,840/year	< R193,680/year
Grant-in-Aid	< R8,070/month	< R193,680/year
Disability Grant	< R16,140/month	< R193,680/year
Foster Child Grant	No limit	No limit
War Veterans Grant	< R86,280/year	< R172,560/year

FAQs About How Much You Must Earn to Qualify for the SASSA Grant

Which SASSA grant has no income limit?

The Foster Child Grant has no income limit. Just present your court order confirming legal guardianship.

Does SASSA use dollars or rand?

SASSA uses South African Rand (ZAR) for all evaluations and payments.

How does SASSA know how much I earn?

SASSA works with other systems like banks and tax offices to verify your income, helping ensure accurate results.

What if my income is slightly over the limit?

Even a small difference can impact your eligibility. It’s best to make sure your income stays within the approved limit for the grant.

Will income limits change over time?

Yes, SASSA reviews and updates these limits each year. Always use the latest figures when applying.

Final Words

Applying for a SASSA grant is a smart step toward securing your financial future. Knowing the income limits for each type of grant helps you plan with clarity and confidence. With the right documents, truthful reporting, and up-to-date information, you can move forward smoothly.

Need to check your status? Use our quick and easy SASSA status check tool—it only takes two steps!