May Payment Hike for Care Grant Confirmed – Here’s Your Updated Grant Amount!

Care grant payment increase : The South African government has officially confirmed a payment increase for the Care Dependency Grant starting from May 2025. This increase is part of the broader social relief adjustments aimed at helping vulnerable citizens cope with rising living costs. If you or someone you know receives this grant, it’s important to understand the changes, the new payment amount, and how it will impact your monthly support.

In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the May 2025 Care Dependency Grant increase, including updated figures, eligibility details, payment schedule, and official contact information.

What is the SASSA Care Dependency Grant?

The Care Dependency Grant is a financial support program provided by SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) to caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require permanent care at home. It aims to ease the burden on families by offering monthly financial aid.

To qualify, a child must:

• Be under the age of 18
• Have a permanent, severe disability
• Require full-time care from a caregiver
• Be assessed and approved by a medical officer

This grant is means-tested, meaning the household income of the caregiver is considered before approval.

Confirmed Payment Increase – How Much Will You Get Now?

Starting May 1, 2025, SASSA has officially increased the Care Dependency Grant amount. This change was announced in line with the Department of Social Development’s budget for the 2025/2026 financial year.

Here is a comparison of the old and new grant amounts:

Month	Previous Amount (ZAR)	New Amount (ZAR)	Increase (ZAR)
January 2025	R2,090	R2,090	R0
February 2025	R2,090	R2,090	R0
March 2025	R2,090	R2,090	R0
April 2025	R2,090	R2,090	R0
May 2025	R2,090	R2,190	R100
June 2025	R2,090	R2,190	R100
July 2025	R2,090	R2,190	R100

This R100 increase reflects the government’s efforts to combat inflation and ensure children with disabilities receive continued care without additional financial stress on their families.

Eligibility Requirements for the Care Dependency Grant in 2025

To receive the updated Care Dependency Grant payment, beneficiaries must meet the existing eligibility criteria. No changes have been made to the requirements as of May 2025.

• The child must be under 18 years of age
• Must have a permanent disability certified by a medical doctor
• Must not be permanently cared for in a state institution
• The primary caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
• Income thresholds must be met:
  • Single caregiver: Not more than R249,600 per year
  • Married caregivers: Combined income not more than R499,200 per year

Make sure your information is up to date to avoid disruptions in payments.

How to Apply or Update Details for the Grant

If you’re applying for the first time or updating your caregiver or child’s details, here’s how to proceed:

Application Methods:

• Visit your nearest SASSA office with required documents
• Apply online via the SASSA Services Portal: https://services.sassa.gov.za/
• Call the SASSA Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11

Documents Required:

• ID document of the caregiver
• Medical assessment report of the child
• Birth certificate of the child
• Proof of income
• Proof of residence

Processing time may take up to 90 days, so it’s advisable to apply or update early.

Payment Dates for May 2025 and Beyond

SASSA has released the updated payment schedule for May 2025 onwards. Below is the relevant section for Care Dependency Grant recipients:

Month	Expected Payment Date
May 2025	Friday, 3 May 2025
June 2025	Monday, 3 June 2025
July 2025	Wednesday, 3 July 2025
August 2025	Monday, 5 August 2025
September 2025	Wednesday, 4 Sept 2025
October 2025	Thursday, 3 Oct 2025
November 2025	Monday, 4 Nov 2025
December 2025	Tuesday, 3 Dec 2025

Payments are usually reflected in accounts within 24-48 hours after processing. Recipients can collect their grants from:

• Bank accounts (preferred)
• Post Office
• Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, and USave outlets

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the May 2025 grant increase permanent?
Yes, the increase is permanent and will apply throughout the financial year 2025/2026.

2. Do I need to reapply to receive the increased amount?
No. If you are already receiving the grant, the increase is automatic.

3. How do I check my SASSA payment status?
Visit the SASSA SRD portal or call the SASSA helpdesk at 0800 60 10 11.

4. Can I receive the Care Dependency Grant and other grants at the same time?
Yes, but only if you qualify for multiple grants for different children or if your household qualifies under special cases.

5. What if my child turns 18 in 2025?
The grant stops when the child turns 18. You may apply for a Disability Grant if the individual still meets criteria.

How to Contact SASSA for More Help

For additional questions or concerns about the May 2025 Care Dependency Grant payment increase, you can contact SASSA through the following official channels:

• SASSA Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 60 10 11
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.sassa.gov.za/
• Physical Address: Visit your nearest SASSA local office (Use the office locator tool on the website)

You can also follow SASSA’s official social media pages for real-time updates and announcements.

The confirmed Care Dependency Grant increase for May 2025 is a welcome relief for thousands of South African families caring for children with disabilities. With the grant now increased to R2,190 per month, caregivers can plan their monthly expenses with greater stability. Remember to keep your details updated and stay informed through official channels to ensure smooth and timely payments.