SASSA Disability Grant - Eligibility, Amount & How to Apply
The Disability Grant provides monthly financial assistance of R2400 to South African citizens and permanent residents between the ages of 18 and 59 who are medically assessed as unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. The grant can be awarded on a temporary or permanent basis, depending on the nature of the disability. It increased by R85 in the April 2026 budget, up from R2315.
Quick Facts - Disability Grant
Monthly Amount
R2400
Who Qualifies
Adults 18–59 with a medically confirmed disability
How to Apply
In person at any SASSA office
Next Payment Date
Tuesday, 7 April 2026
Grant Types
Temporary (6–12 months) or Permanent
2026 Increase
+R85/month
Temporary vs Permanent Disability Grant
SASSA distinguishes between two types of disability grants based on the expected duration of the disability. Understanding the difference is important for your application and ongoing grant management.
Temporary Disability Grant
- Awarded for 6 to 12 months
- For conditions expected to improve
- Must be renewed before expiry
- Requires a new medical assessment at renewal
- Examples: recovering from surgery, temporary mental health conditions, injuries expected to heal
Permanent Disability Grant
- No fixed end date
- For conditions unlikely to improve
- Does not require regular renewal
- SASSA may conduct periodic reviews
- Examples: amputation, blindness, permanent neurological conditions, severe chronic illness
Who Qualifies for the Disability Grant?
| Age Requirement | Between 18 and 59 years old |
| Max Income (Single) | R96 840 per year |
| Max Income (Married) | R193 680 per year |
| Max Assets (Single) | R1 372 800 |
| Max Assets (Married) | R2 745 600 |
| Citizenship | South African citizen or permanent resident |
| Medical Requirement | Must be assessed by a SASSA-appointed doctor |
Full Eligibility Requirements
- Must be between 18 and 59 years old
- Must be medically assessed as disabled
- Must not be maintained in a state institution
- Must pass the means test
How to Apply for the Disability Grant
The Disability Grant application requires an in-person visit to a SASSA office and a medical assessment. The process is more involved than other grants due to the medical evaluation component.
Gather Your Documents
Collect your South African ID, proof of residence, bank statements, medical records from your treating doctor, any specialist reports, and a list of current medications.
Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office
Go to a SASSA office to submit your application. A SASSA official will assist you with the form and check your documents. If you are unable to visit in person, a family member can start the process on your behalf.
Complete the Means Test
SASSA will assess your income and assets. The same thresholds apply as for the Older Persons Grant. Provide bank statements and proof of any income sources.
Attend the Medical Assessment
SASSA will schedule an appointment with a SASSA-appointed medical doctor. This is different from your own doctor. Bring all medical records, X-rays, prescriptions, and specialist reports to support your case.
Wait for the Assessment Panel Decision
The medical assessment report is reviewed by a SASSA panel that determines whether you qualify for a temporary or permanent grant. This typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Receive Notification
SASSA will inform you of the outcome via SMS or post. If approved, payments begin in the next payment cycle. If declined, you have the right to appeal within 90 days.
Renewal Process for Temporary Disability Grants
If you have a temporary Disability Grant, you must renew it before it expires. Failing to renew in time will result in your payments being stopped, and you will need to reapply from scratch. Start the renewal process at least 3 months before your grant expires.
Important: Do Not Wait Until Expiry
Begin your renewal process 3 months before your temporary grant expires. Visit your SASSA office with updated medical records from your doctor. SASSA will schedule a new medical assessment. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks, so starting early avoids gaps in payment.
Required Documents
- South African ID document (original and copy)
- Proof of residence (utility bill, lease, or affidavit)
- Bank statements for the past 3 months
- Medical records from your treating doctor
- Specialist reports (if available)
- List of current medications and prescriptions
- X-rays or scan results (if relevant)
- Marriage certificate and spouse's income details (if married)
Disability Grant Payment Dates 2026
Disability Grant payments are made at the beginning of each month, on the same day as Older Persons and War Veterans grants. These grants are always paid first in the SASSA payment cycle.
Next Disability Grant Payment
Tuesday, 7 April 2026
For the full payment schedule, visit our payment dates page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a temporary and permanent disability grant?
How does the medical assessment work for the Disability Grant?
Can I work and still receive the Disability Grant?
How do I renew a temporary Disability Grant?
What happens to my Disability Grant when I turn 60?
Related Grants
You may also qualify for these additional grants: