In 2024, the South African government implemented significant increases to social grants, including the Disability Grant, to better support vulnerable populations amid rising living costs. These adjustments aim to provide enhanced financial assistance to those in need.
Disability Grant Increase
The Disability Grant experienced a total increase of R100 in 2024. Initially, in April 2024, the grant amount rose by R90, bringing it to R2,180 per month.
Subsequently, in October 2024, an additional R10 was added, resulting in a new monthly total of R2,190.
Other Social Grant Adjustments
- Older Persons Grant: Increased by R100, with R90 added in April and an additional R10 in October 2024.
- War Veterans Grant: Similarly, this grant saw a total increase of R100 over the year.
- Foster Care Grant: Beneficiaries received an increase of R50 in April 2024.
- Child Support Grant: This grant was raised by R20 in April 2024.
Implementation Timeline
The grant increases were implemented in two phases:
- April 2024: The initial increment was applied to the grants.
- October 2024: A further increase was added to finalize the total annual adjustment.
Financial Implications
These adjustments reflect the government’s commitment to aligning social grants with inflation and the increasing cost of living.
The total expenditure on social grants, excluding the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, is projected to rise from R217.1 billion in 2023/24 to R259.3 billion in 2026/27.
Eligibility Criteria for the Disability Grant
To qualify for the Disability Grant, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees residing in South Africa.
- Be between 18 and 59 years old.
- Undergo a medical assessment confirming a disability that prevents employment for more than six months.
- Meet the means test requirements regarding income and assets.
Application Process
Applicants are required to:
- Complete a disability grant application form at the nearest South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office.
- Provide necessary documentation, including a 13-digit bar-coded ID, medical reports, proof of income, and bank statements.
- Undergo a medical examination by a state-appointed doctor.
Payment Methods
Beneficiaries can receive their grants through,
- Cash collection at designated pay points.
- Electronic deposits into personal bank accounts, including Postbank.
- Payments to institutions not funded by the state, such as homes for people with disabilities.
| Grant Type | April 2024 Increase | October 2024 Increase | Total Increase | New Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | R90 | R10 | R100 | R2,190 |
| War Veterans Grant | R90 | R10 | R100 | R2,210 |
| Disability Grant | R90 | R10 | R100 | R2,190 |
| Foster Care Grant | R50 | — | R50 | R1,180 |
| Child Support Grant | R20 | — | R20 | R530 |
These increments are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to support vulnerable groups and ensure that social assistance keeps pace with economic challenges.
FAQs
What is the current amount of the Disability Grant?
As of October 2024, the Disability Grant is R2,190 per month.
Who qualifies for the Disability Grant?
Individuals aged 18 to 59 with a physical or mental disability that prevents them from working for more than six months, who meet the means test criteria, are eligible.
How can I apply for the Disability Grant?
Applications must be submitted in person at a SASSA office with the required documentation and a medical assessment report.
