In 2025, discussions about a South African R700 grant have emerged, prompting many citizens to seek information on its legitimacy, application process, and eligibility criteria.
It’s crucial to clarify that no official R700 grant has been introduced by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). Misinformation regarding this grant has been circulating, leading to confusion among potential applicants.
This article aims to dispel these rumors, provide accurate details about legitimate SASSA grants, and guide you on how to apply online.
Understanding the R700 Grant Rumor
The rumor of a R700 grant gained traction in early 2025, primarily through social media platforms. However, SASSA has officially stated that there is no such grant.
The current Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant remains at R370 per month, with no confirmed plans to increase it to R700. Beneficiaries are advised to rely on official communications from SASSA to avoid falling victim to scams.
Legitimate SASSA Grants Available in 2025
While the R700 grant does not exist, SASSA offers several legitimate grants to assist South African citizens in need. Below is an overview of these grants, their eligibility criteria, and application procedures:
1. Older Persons Grant
Purpose: Provides financial support to elderly citizens.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be 60 years or older.
- South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee residing in South Africa.
- Must not be receiving another social grant.
- Pass the means test assessing income and assets.
Grant Amount: As of April 2025, R2,090 per month for individuals aged 60 to 74, and R2,110 for those aged 75 and above.
Application Process: Apply in person at the nearest SASSA office with the required documents, including a valid ID and proof of income.
2. Disability Grant
Purpose: Assists individuals with disabilities who are unable to support themselves financially.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Aged between 18 and 59 years.
- South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee residing in South Africa.
- Medical assessment confirming disability.
- Pass the means test.
Grant Amount: The grant amount is subject to periodic adjustments; applicants should verify the current amount during application.
Application Process: Submit an application at a SASSA office with necessary documents, including a medical assessment report.
3. Child Support Grant
Purpose: Supports caregivers in meeting the basic needs of children under their care.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The child must be under 18 years old.
- Primary caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee residing in South Africa.
- Meet the income threshold: Single caregivers earning less than R60,000 annually or married caregivers with a combined income under R120,000.
Grant Amount: The specific amount is updated periodically; applicants should check the latest figures during application.
Application Process: Apply at the nearest SASSA office with the child’s birth certificate and proof of income.
4. Foster Child Grant
Purpose: Provides financial assistance to foster parents caring for children placed in their care by a court order.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The child must be under 18 years.
- Legal foster care status confirmed by a court order.
Grant Amount: Applicants should verify the current grant amount during the application process.
Application Process: Visit a SASSA office with the court order and necessary identification documents.
5. Care Dependency Grant
Purpose: Assists caregivers of children with severe disabilities requiring full-time care.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The child must be under 18 years old with a severe disability.
- South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee residing in South Africa.
- Not permanently cared for in a state institution.
- Pass the means test.
Grant Amount: The grant amount is subject to change; applicants should confirm the current amount when applying.
Application Process: Apply at a SASSA office with a medical assessment report and other required documents.
6. Grant-in-Aid
Purpose: Provides additional support to individuals already receiving a social grant who require full-time care.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be receiving an Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, or War Veterans Grant.
- Require full-time care due to physical or mental disability.
Grant Amount: Applicants should check the latest grant amount during the application process.
Application Process: Submit an application at a SASSA office with a medical assessment confirming the need for full-time care.
How to Apply for SASSA Grants Online
SASSA has streamlined the application process for certain grants, allowing eligible individuals to apply online. Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the SASSA Services Portal: Access the official SASSA online services portal.
- Register an Account: Create a new account by providing your personal details, including your South African ID
FAQs
Is the R700 grant from SASSA real or fake?
The rumored R700 grant circulating in 2025 is not real. SASSA has confirmed no such grant exists; the current Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant remains at R370 per month.
How can I apply for legitimate SASSA grants online?
To apply for legitimate grants, visit the official SASSA online portal, create an account, fill out the application form accurately, upload required documents, and submit your application online.
Who is eligible for the Child Support Grant from SASSA in 2025?
The Child Support Grant is available to caregivers of children under 18 years old with annual income below R60,000 (single caregiver) or R120,000 (married caregivers).