The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers financial assistance through their disability grant for South Africans who are unable to work because of health issues. Many people are unclear about holding a part-time job or a once-off temporary job and still claiming for this grant.
Types of SASSA disability grants
The SASSA disability grant aims to help individuals with disabilities who cannot support themselves with financial support for basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter.
There are two types of SASSA disability grants – permanent disability grant and temporary disability grant.
Individuals can get a permanent disability grant if their disability will continue for more than a year. Temporary disability grants are considered for individuals with a disability that will last for a continuous period of not less than six months and not more than 12 months.
A permanent disability grant does not mean you will receive the grant for life, but that it will continue for longer than 12 months.
If you have a physical or mental disability which makes you unfit to work for a period of longer than six months, you can apply for a disability grant.
How do you know if you qualify?
To qualify for the grant, applicants must meet specific criteria outlined by SASSA.
To qualify, you must:
- present any previous medical records and reports
- be a South African citizen or permanent resident or refugee and living in South Africa at the time of application
- be between 18 and 59 years old
- not be cared for in a state institution
- have a 13-digit, bar-coded identity document (ID)
- not earn more than R86 280 if you are single or R172 560 if married
- not have assets worth more than R1 227 600 if you are single or R2 455 200 if you are married
- undergo a medical examination where a doctor appointed by the state will assess the degree of your disability
Can you work part-time and still get the grant?
The short answer is yes. You can work part-time and still qualify for the SASSA disability grant. However, it is essential to adhere to specific guidelines regarding income:
SASSA income limits
While holding a part-time job, your total income (including the grant) must not exceed the set income threshold. If your earnings surpass the specified limits, you may lose your eligibility for the grant. Therefore, monitoring your income and ensuring it remains within the acceptable range is crucial.
Reporting income
It is mandatory to report any income earned from part-time work to SASSA. If you fail to disclose your income, the government may penalise you and may require you to repay the grant.
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