Introduction
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) continues to provide financial assistance to eligible caregivers through the Care Dependency Grant. In March 2025, the grant amount will be R2,190 per month, aimed at supporting individuals caring for children with severe disabilities who require full-time care. This article details eligibility requirements, application procedures, and payment dates for the upcoming grant cycle.
What is the SASSA Care Dependency Grant?
The Care Dependency Grant is a monthly financial aid program designed to support biological, foster, or legal guardians of children with severe disabilities who need permanent care at home. This grant ensures that caregivers can provide adequate support, including medical care, specialized equipment, and essential daily needs.

Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SASSA R2,190 Care Dependency Grant in March 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Child’s Age & Citizenship
- The child must be under 18 years old.
- The child must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Disability Assessment
- A certified medical officer must confirm that the child has a permanent, severe disability requiring full-time care.
- Primary Caregiver Requirements
- The applicant must be the child’s biological parent, foster parent, or legal guardian.
- The caregiver must be residing in South Africa.
- Means Test for Biological Parents
- The combined income of both biological parents must be below R223,200 per year (R18,600 per month) for married applicants.
- Single applicants must earn less than R111,600 per year (R9,300 per month).
- Foster parents are exempt from the means test.
How to Apply for the SASSA Care Dependency Grant
Eligible applicants can apply online or in person at a SASSA office. Follow these steps to submit an application:
- Visit the nearest SASSA office or apply through the SASSA online portal.
- Complete the official Care Dependency Grant application form.
- Provide necessary documents, including:
- Child’s birth certificate (original or certified copy).
- Medical assessment report confirming severe disability.
- Proof of income for biological parents (payslips, bank statements, or affidavits if unemployed).
- Caregiver’s valid South African ID.
- Submit the application and receive a receipt as proof of submission.
- Await application processing, which may take up to 3 months.
- If approved, payments will be backdated to the application date.

SASSA Care Dependency Grant Payment Date (March 2025)
SASSA payments are scheduled on a monthly basis. The March 2025 Care Dependency Grant is expected to be paid on Monday, March 4, 2025. Payments will be made via:
- SASSA Gold Card (Postbank ATMs and retailers)
- Direct deposit into a caregiver’s bank account
- Cash collection at designated pay points
Conclusion
The SASSA R2,190 Care Dependency Grant in March 2025 provides essential financial support to caregivers of children with severe disabilities. If you qualify, ensure you apply in time and meet all requirements to avoid delays. Stay informed about payment schedules and application updates through official SASSA channels.
FAQs
1. How long does it take for a SASSA Care Dependency Grant application to be approved?
The application process takes up to 3 months, but back payments will be issued from the application date if approved.
2. Can I apply for the Care Dependency Grant online?
Yes, you can apply via the SASSA online portal or at a local SASSA office.
3. What happens if my application is rejected?
If your application is denied, you can appeal within 90 days by submitting additional supporting documents.
4. Will the grant amount increase in 2025?
The R2,190 amount is confirmed for March 2025, but SASSA may announce increases later in the year.
5. Can a foster parent apply for the Care Dependency Grant?
Yes, foster parents can apply, and they are not subject to the means test.