R1420 Monthly Support – In a major relief for South African families housing individuals with disabilities, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed that from 19 July 2025, a monthly support of R1,420 per disabled person in a household will be issued under the updated Disability Grant rules. This comes as part of the government’s broader initiative to increase social support and promote inclusive financial dignity. The announcement also included an update to the “sliding scale” system, which will determine how much each applicant receives based on their income and household structure. The full R1,420 monthly payment will be awarded to those who meet the zero or minimal income threshold, with reduced amounts provided to others according to the new sliding formula. This grant has long served as a lifeline for individuals who are medically certified as permanently or temporarily disabled and unable to support themselves. The latest revision, which includes both monetary increases and an adjusted qualification method, is seen as a much-needed response to the rising cost of living and inflationary pressure that affects disabled individuals disproportionately. Many South Africans remain unaware of how to qualify or how much they may receive depending on income. This article breaks down the new payment structure, eligibility rules, income tests, and more to ensure every disabled citizen and their caretaker knows what support they can expect from 19 July onwards.
New Monthly Payment: R1420 Monthly Support From 19 July
SASSA has confirmed that each disabled person in a qualifying household will receive up to R1,420 per month from 19 July 2025. Here’s what you need to know:
- Monthly grant payment revised from R1,300 to R1,420.
- Effective from 19 July 2025.
- Paid directly into the beneficiary’s bank account or SASSA card.
- Applies to both permanent and temporary disability grants.
- Income-based “sliding scale” system introduced for fair distribution.
Sliding Scale Explained: Income-Based Payment Breakdown
Under the new system, the full R1,420 is only granted to individuals with no personal or household income. Those earning above a certain amount will receive a reduced amount according to the scale below.
SASSA Disability Grant Sliding Scale – From 19 July 2025
| Applicant’s Monthly Income | Number of Disabled Persons | Monthly Grant Per Person | Total Monthly Household Grant |
|---|---|---|---|
| R0 – R500 | 1 | R1,420 | R1,420 |
| R501 – R1,000 | 1 | R1,240 | R1,240 |
| R1,001 – R1,500 | 1 | R1,050 | R1,050 |
| R1,501 – R2,000 | 1 | R880 | R880 |
| R2,001 – R2,500 | 1 | R720 | R720 |
| R2,501 – R3,000 | 1 | R600 | R600 |
| R3,001 and above | 1 | R500 | R500 |
Who Qualifies For The New SASSA Disability Grant?
Not everyone can claim the new R1,420 grant. Eligibility depends on several factors, including age, medical status, and income. Here’s what qualifies you:
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Must be between 18 and 59 years old.
- Must undergo a medical assessment by a state-appointed doctor.
- Must be declared disabled for at least 6 months (temporary) or permanently disabled.
- Must pass the SASSA Means Test (income and asset assessment).
Medical Evaluation Requirements
Before the grant is approved, applicants must be medically assessed at a government facility:
- A state doctor will assess physical/mental disability.
- The report remains valid for 3 months from date of issue.
- Medical condition must prevent gainful employment.
SASSA Means Test: Know the Income & Asset Limits
The means test is used to determine if you’re financially eligible for the disability grant. Both income and assets are evaluated.
SASSA Means Test Limits (2025)
| Applicant Type | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit | Asset Limit (Single) | Asset Limit (Married) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Applicant | R8,070 | R96,840 | R1,372,800 | R2,745,600 |
| Married Couple | R16,140 | R193,680 | R2,745,600 | R2,745,600 |
What Counts as Income and Assets?
- Income includes salaries, pensions, rent received, business earnings.
- Assets include properties, vehicles (beyond 1), savings, investments.
How to Apply for the Disability Grant in 2025?
Applying for the updated SASSA Disability Grant is free and can be done in person.
- Visit your nearest SASSA office with required documents.
- Submit a medical report from a government doctor.
- Provide proof of income, residence, and ID.
- Complete the application form with the help of an officer.
- Keep your receipt as proof of application.
Required Documents Checklist
Make sure you carry the following:
- Valid South African ID or refugee status proof.
- Medical assessment report.
- 3 months’ bank statements.
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill).
- Payslip or proof of unemployment.
- Marriage certificate (if applicable).
Grant Payment Dates & Process: When Will You Receive the Money?
SASSA has confirmed the grant will be distributed monthly, with payments scheduled in the first week of every month.
Expected SASSA Disability Grant Payment Dates (July – December 2025)
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| July 2025 | 19 July |
| August | 5 August |
| September | 4 September |
| October | 3 October |
| November | 5 November |
| December | 3 December |
Payment Method Options
- Direct deposit into bank account.
- SASSA card withdrawals at ATMs.
- Collection at Post Office or SASSA pay points.
What Happens If Your Application Is Rejected?
Sometimes applications are denied. Here’s what you can do:
- You’ll receive a written explanation from SASSA.
- You have the right to appeal within 90 days.
- Appeals go to the Ministry of Social Development.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Failed means test (income/assets too high).
- Incomplete medical report.
- Incomplete documents.
- Already receiving another grant.
What If You’re Caring for More Than One Disabled Family Member?
SASSA allows one household to receive the grant for each disabled individual, provided they meet the eligibility:
- R1,420 per eligible person (as per the sliding scale).
- Must provide medical reports and documents for each person.
- Total household income is considered in means test.
Maximum Household Benefit Example (2 Disabled Members)
| Income Range | Grant Per Person | Total Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| R0 – R500 | R1,420 | R2,840 |
| R1,001 – R1,500 | R1,050 | R2,100 |
| R2,501 – R3,000 | R600 | R1,200 |
If you or someone in your household is disabled and financially struggling, this updated SASSA Disability Grant could offer real and immediate relief. Be sure to apply as early as possible with complete and correct documentation. The R1,420 monthly payment could help cover food, medical, and transport costs for thousands of vulnerable South Africans.
FAQs on the SASSA Disability Grant
Q1. Can I get the disability grant if I already receive a child support grant?
No. You cannot receive more than one social grant for yourself at the same time.
Q2. Is the R1,420 grant permanent?
It depends on the type of disability. Temporary disability grants last 6–12 months. Permanent grants are reviewed every few years.
Q3. How long does it take to get approved?
Approval can take up to 3 months depending on backlog and documentation.
Q4. Can someone else apply on my behalf?
Yes, with a power of attorney letter or a certified affidavit.
Q5. Will I lose the grant if I get a job later?
Yes, if your income exceeds the threshold in the means test, your grant may be suspended or cancelled.
Q6. Can foreign nationals get this grant?
Only those with refugee status and valid documents may qualify.