Two SASSA Grants at Once?

If you’re a South African citizen relying on social assistance, you’ve probably wondered: “Can I receive two SASSA grants at once?”

With the rising cost of living, many people seek ways to maximize available government support.

This article breaks down the eligibility rules, exceptions, and facts about receiving multiple SASSA grants in 2025.

Whether you’re a caregiver, parent, unemployed individual, or low-income beneficiary, this guide will help you understand what the law allows—and what it doesn’t—regarding multiple SASSA grants.

Can You Legally Receive Two SASSA Grants at Once?

Understanding the SASSA Grant System

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides various types of grants aimed at different vulnerable groups, including:

• Child Support Grant (CSG)
• Old Age Pension
• Disability Grant
• Foster Child Grant
• Care Dependency Grant
• War Veteran’s Grant
• Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 Grant

Each of these grants has unique eligibility criteria, and they’re designed to avoid duplication of benefits for the same need.

The Golden Rule: No Double-Dipping for One Person

The SASSA regulation strictly prohibits individuals from receiving two grants for the same person. For example:

• A single person cannot receive both the Old Age Pension and a Disability Grant.
• A parent cannot get a Child Support Grant and a Foster Care Grant for the same child.

However, there are situations where someone can be involved in multiple grants, as long as it doesn’t violate the “one person, one grant type” rule.

When Can You Receive Two SASSA Grants Legally?

1. One Person, Multiple Roles

If you’re a caregiver or guardian, you may legally receive:

• Your own Old Age or Disability Grant, plus
• Child Support Grants for each child under your care

✅ Example: A grandmother receives the Old Age Grant for herself and collects Child Support Grants for her two grandchildren.

2. Foster and Care Dependency Grants on Behalf of Others

You may receive:

• A Care Dependency Grant for a severely disabled child, and
• A Child Support Grant for another unrelated child.

As long as each grant is for a different beneficiary, it is permissible.

3. SRD Grant + Another Grant (Not Allowed)

One of the most common questions is whether someone can receive the SRD R370 Grant alongside another SASSA grant. The answer is no.

According to SASSA guidelines, SRD grants are strictly for those with no other social grant income.

Common Misconceptions About Dual SASSA Grants

Misconception 1: I Can Apply for All Grants and See Which Gets Approved

🚫 Reality: SASSA has sophisticated systems that verify identity and financial status. Applying for multiple conflicting grants may delay your application or result in automatic disqualification.

Misconception 2: If I Use a Different ID, I Can Receive Two Grants

🚫 Reality: This is considered fraud, and SASSA cross-checks databases. If caught, you may face criminal charges and have to repay the money.

What Happens If You Receive Two Grants by Mistake?

If SASSA discovers that you’re receiving duplicate grants, you may:

• Have one of the grants cancelled
• Be asked to refund the amount
• Face investigation or legal action

Always ensure that you accurately report your status and avoid applying for grants you’re not entitled to.

Eligibility Check: Can You Apply for Multiple SASSA Grants?

Here’s a quick checklist for different scenarios:

Scenario	Eligible for Two Grants?	Reason
Mother with no income and two kids	✅ Yes	Can apply for Child Support Grant per child
Disabled adult and guardian of one child	✅ Yes	Can receive Disability Grant + Child Support
Pensioner and SRD Grant applicant	❌ No	Cannot get SRD if you receive any other grant
Foster parent receiving CSG + FCG	❌ No	Only one grant allowed per child

How to Manage Multiple Grants as a Caregiver

Managing multiple grants can be overwhelming. Here are some tips:

1. Keep Accurate Records

Maintain copies of:

• Grant approval letters
• ID documents of beneficiaries
• Bank statements

This is helpful during reviews or reapplication.

2. Know Your Review Dates

Each grant has a renewal or review period. Missing your review may cause your grant to lapse or get suspended.

3. Use One Bank Account Per Person

Avoid using one bank account for multiple grants unless instructed. This reduces fraud risk and makes tracking easier.

Grant Combinations That Are Allowed

Here’s a visual table for clarity:

Your Grant	Can You Also Receive This?	Allowed?
Old Age Grant	Child Support (as caregiver)	✅ Yes
Disability Grant	Foster Care Grant (for child)	✅ Yes
SRD Grant	Any Other SASSA Grant	❌ No
Care Dependency	Child Support (same child)	❌ No
Foster Care	Child Support (same child)	❌ No

What the Law Says

According to the Social Assistance Act, section 6 and SASSA’s own internal policies:

If you’re unsure, contact your nearest SASSA office or use the SASSA online application portal to verify eligibility.

Conclusion

You can receive more than one SASSA grant—but only if they’re for different people or roles. The golden rule is that one person can only receive one type of grant for themselves, but a caregiver may receive additional grants on behalf of dependents.

If you’re considering applying for a second grant, make sure you’re doing so within the legal framework to avoid penalties or disqualification.

👉 Need help tracking your grant status? Use the official SASSA portal or visit your nearest SASSA office for personalized assistance.

FAQs