Understanding the SASSA Means Test: What You Need to Know

[NyarkoWiz]

If you're looking to qualify for a SASSA grant, you’ll first need to pass the SASSA Means Test. This test determines whether your income and assets fall within the limits set by the South African government. If your financial situation exceeds these limits, unfortunately, you won’t qualify for the grant.

Key Points to Know About the Means Test​

• If you’re single, only your own income and assets are assessed.
• If you’re married, both your income and assets, as well as your spouse’s, are considered—regardless of your marital property regime.
• Grants for Older Persons, Disabled Individuals, and War Veterans are paid on a sliding scale, meaning the more private income you have, the smaller your government grant will be.

Income & Asset Thresholds for SASSA Grants (As of April 2023)​

Asset Thresholds:​

For the Older Persons, Disability, and War Veterans grants:

• Single applicants: Your total assets must not exceed R1,372,800.
• Married applicants: Combined assets with your spouse must not exceed R2,745,600.
• Note: The home you live in is not counted as an asset, no matter who owns it.

Income Thresholds (Annual Limits):​

Older Persons, Disability, and War Veterans Grants:​

• Single applicants: Maximum annual income R96,840 (R8,070 per month).
• Married couples: Combined annual income must not exceed R193,680 (R16,140 per month).

Child Support Grant:​

• Single applicants: Maximum annual income R60,000 (R5,000 per month).
• Married couples: Combined annual income must not exceed R120,000 (R10,000 per month).

Care Dependency Grant:​

• Single parents/caregivers: Maximum annual income R249,600 (R20,800 per month).
• Married couples: Combined income must not exceed R499,200 (R41,600 per month).
• Note: The Foster Child Grant is not subject to a means test.

What Counts as Income?​

Income isn’t just your salary—it includes any money that helps you make a living, such as:
Rent from a property you own
Financial support from relatives
Private pension fund payouts
Child maintenance from an ex-spouse
Profits from farming or a business
Compensation from UIF, RAF, or COIDA

• If your spouse already receives a SASSA grant, their grant does not count as income for your application.
• However, if they receive any other income, it must be declared.

What Counts as Assets?​

Assets include:
The value of any property or land you own (excluding your primary home).
Cash in bank accounts or savings.
Investments, bonds, or outstanding loans.
Any valuable financial assets in your name.

If you own a home and live in it, it will NOT be counted as an asset.

What Deductions Are Allowed?​

When calculating your income for the means test, you can deduct:

• Contributions to a pension fund/retirement annuity
• Income tax payments
• Medical aid contributions
• UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) payments

How Much Does Each SASSA Grant Pay?​

As of April 2023, here are the monthly SASSA grant payouts:

• Old Age Grant (below 75 years old): R2,080
• Old Age Grant (above 75 years old): R2,100
• War Veterans Grant: R2,100
• Disability Grant: R2,080
• Care Dependency Grant: R2,080
• Foster Child Grant: R1,120
• Child Support Grant: R500 (or R750 with the R250 top-up)
• Extended Child Support Grant (for orphaned children): R750
• Grant-in-Aid: R500
• COVID-19 SRD Grant: R350

Final Thoughts​

The SASSA Means Test is designed to ensure that only those who truly need financial support receive it. If you’re considering applying for a grant, be sure to check whether your income and assets fall within the allowed limits. If they do, you could receive valuable financial assistance to help improve your quality of life.

For the latest updates, always check SASSA’s official website or visit your nearest SASSA office.