Disability Grant — If you cannot work because of illness or disability
If you have a medical condition, disability, or illness that stops you from working, you may qualify for the Disability Grant. The government pays R2,190 per month to help you cover your basic needs.
Grant amount
R2,190/mo
Minimum age
18
Maximum age
59
Duration
1–2 years (renewable)
info
The Disability Grant is for people aged 18 to 59. If you are 60 or older, apply for the Old Age Grant instead — it has the same amount and is easier to get.
Do I qualify?
check_circleYou are between 18 and 59 years old
check_circleYou are a South African citizen or permanent resident
check_circleA doctor has confirmed that your disability or illness stops you from working
check_circleYour monthly income is below R8,934 (single) or R17,868 (married)
check_circleYour assets are worth less than R1,227,600 (single) or R2,455,200 (married)
What counts as a disability?
SASSA uses a medical assessment to decide. Conditions that often qualify include:
check_circleHIV/AIDS (if your CD4 count is below 200 or you have AIDS-defining conditions)
check_circleMental health conditions (depression, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders)
check_circlePhysical disabilities — blindness, deafness, loss of limbs
check_circleChronic illnesses like kidney failure, heart disease, or cancer
check_circleConditions that require regular hospitalisation or that stop you from doing basic daily activities
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Even if your condition is temporary or might improve, you can still apply. SASSA may grant it for a limited period and then reassess.
What documents do I need?
check_circleYour South African ID document
check_circleA medical report from a registered doctor or specialist — this is the most important document
check_circleMedical records, hospital letters, and test results
check_circleProof of income and assets
check_circleProof of residence
The medical assessment process
After you apply, SASSA will arrange for a doctor to assess you. This is free. The doctor will write a report saying whether your condition qualifies. Here is what to expect:
1
Submit your application at a SASSA office
Bring your ID and as much medical evidence as you have. The more evidence, the better.
2
SASSA books a medical assessment for you
A SASSA-approved doctor will examine you. This is free. Tell the doctor everything about your condition — how it affects your daily life, not just what the diagnosis is.
3
The doctor writes a report
The doctor recommends whether you qualify and for how long (usually 1 or 2 years).
4
SASSA makes the final decision
If approved, you receive backpay from the date you applied. If declined, you can appeal within 90 days.
5
Renew before it expires
SASSA will remind you when your grant is about to expire. You must renew it — go through the same process again.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Go to your nearest public clinic or hospital and ask to see a doctor. Public healthcare is free. Ask the doctor for a medical report for your SASSA application.
You can appeal SASSA's decision. Submit your own doctor's report and any other medical evidence with your appeal. You have 90 days to appeal.
SASSA reassesses your condition when your grant expires. If you have recovered enough to work, the grant will not be renewed. You must be honest — SASSA checks with medical records.
Only if your income stays below R8,934 per month and your condition still prevents full-time work. You must declare any income to SASSA.
This guide provides general information only. Always verify at official government websites. Mzansi Money Guide is independent and not affiliated with any government department.
