The South African government provides social assistance to those in need, which is regulated by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). Social grants are available for individuals who are at risk of going hungry or require government assistance to improve their living standards. These grants are typically provided to elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and others in vulnerable situations. In order to qualify for a social grant, you must be a South African citizen, a legally admitted permanent resident, or a refugee.

Certain social grants, such as child support, disability aid, caregiver comfort, and the removal of social distress, are subject to a “means test”. This means that SASSA will assess your income and assets to determine your eligibility for a social grant. Your eligibility for a grant intended for individuals who cannot afford to live independently is based on the means test.

The means test is used to ensure that social grants are provided to those who truly need them, rather than those who can afford to live independently. By evaluating income and assets, SASSA can determine the level of assistance needed and provide the appropriate social grant. Overall, social grants play an important role in alleviating poverty and improving the quality of life for vulnerable individuals in South Africa.