If you are thinking of filing a SASSA application in 2024, here are five things that the South African Social Security Agency will always ask for. You're right. Some social welfare schemes require assets and means testing, others require proof of guardianship, but this does not necessarily apply to all his SASSA applications. Let me explain…
Sassa application in 2024
As you know, in April 2024, social grants increased across the board. These were announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer during the Budget Speech in February and came into force this week. Therefore, if you are a national in need, there is no better time than now to make a SASSA application in 2024. Here’s what you need…
1. Identification
According to Gov.za, a South African barcoded ID must be presented at all times. If you are unable to provide it (if lost or stolen), a SASSA officer will take your fingerprints and you will be referred to the Home Office to apply for a new ID while your application is processed. However, if it is not received by the deadline, the application will be canceled.
2. Proof of address
For your 2024 SASSA application, you will need to provide proof of your residential address. This usually takes the form of a utility bill with your name on it. However, if there is no account in your name, the owner of your house/residence can complete an affidavit declaring that you live at that particular address. Utility bills must then be attached to the affidavit. Similarly, if you are staying in an informal settlement, you will need to submit a signed affidavit confirming your address, with an official date stamp from your ward councillor.
Also read: Why now is the perfect time for the SASSA Senior Citizens Grant in South Africa
3. Bank statement
Between SASSA and DHA, the authorities must verify your income before approving social welfare. To do so, you will need to produce three months' worth of bank statements certified by your bank. This can be obtained online from your bank app, ATM machine, or inside your bank. This information will help SASSA confirm whether you are indeed eligible for financial aid.
4. Application form
Whether your 2024 SASSA claim is for elderly, childcare or disability, you will need to complete an application form. Some (but not all) can be pre-downloaded here. However, applications for the Age Pension and most childcare grants can only be completed at a SASSA branch/office with an official certificate.
5. Third Party Consent
Also note that if you are too old or ill to apply in person, you can nominate a family member or friend to apply on your behalf. This applies to seniors, childcare workers, people with disabilities, or veterans. To obtain third-party assistance, you will need to obtain certification by writing a letter or obtaining a doctor's note. You will need to explain why you cannot personally visit the SASSA office.
OAP exceptions
These are the five must-haves for your 2024 SASSA application. However, there are also important differences between senior citizen, childcare, and disability claims. Old age pension recipients are Over 60 years old and prove your current income through an asset and means test.You can't earn more for that R86 280 (if single) or R172 560 (if married) annually. Similarly, you cannot have assets that are worth more than: R1 227 600 (if single) or R2 455 200 (if married).
Need for childcare
To make a SASSA application for child support in 2024, you must be able to demonstrate that you do not have the following income: R52 800 (if single) or R105 600 (if married) annually. Importantly, to access all child care subsidies, you must prove that you are the child's primary caregiver. Birth parents or grandparents also count. However, if you are not the child's parent, you will need to provide evidence through an affidavit signed by a police officer and/or social worker. A letter from the principal of your child's school is also valid.
Read next: Update on SASSA grants scheduled for April 2024
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