Disabled Grant and Transport Allowance – The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed that starting 28 July 2025, eligible youth with disabilities will receive an upgraded support package that includes the standard R2,090 monthly disability grant along with an additional R400 transport allowance. This update is part of a nationwide effort to improve access to opportunities and essential services for disabled individuals under the age of 35.The Department of Social Development and SASSA have emphasized that this change is aimed at reducing the socio-economic burden faced by young persons living with physical or mental disabilities, especially those in remote or underdeveloped regions. Many such individuals struggle with the added cost of travel to attend health appointments, job interviews, educational institutions, and government offices. This new transport incentive is intended to alleviate that specific barrier.This initiative comes amid increased scrutiny over the accessibility of grant programs and after a series of consultations with disability rights groups. With the rising cost of living and limited employment options for disabled youth, the addition of R400 monthly is expected to significantly enhance their mobility and independence.Let’s explore the details, eligibility, payment schedule, and application process for this new transport-inclusive disability support system being rolled out in July 2025.
Who Qualifies for the Disabled Grant and Transport Allowance
The eligibility criteria have been slightly adjusted to ensure that young people with verified disabilities and transportation needs are prioritized.
- South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Aged 18 to 35 years old
- Medically confirmed disability (temporary or permanent)
- Monthly income below R90,000 (individual) or R180,000 (combined household)
- Not residing in a state-funded institution
- Valid South African ID or Asylum Seeker permit (with Section 22 or 24)
- Must prove transportation dependency for education, healthcare, or work
- Proof of disability assessment by a SASSA-approved state doctor
- Must not already be receiving similar transport or mobility grants
Disabled Grant and Transport Allowance Payment Schedule Starting July 2025
Here is the official payment calendar for the combined R2,090 Disability Grant + R400 Transport Allowance for the rest of the 2025 year:
Payment Month | Disability Grant (R) | Transport Allowance (R) | Total Payment (R) | Payment Start Date |
---|---|---|---|---|
July 2025 | 2,090 | 400 | 2,490 | 28 July 2025 |
August 2025 | 2,090 | 400 | 2,490 | 2 August 2025 |
September 2025 | 2,090 | 400 | 2,490 | 3 September 2025 |
October 2025 | 2,090 | 400 | 2,490 | 2 October 2025 |
November 2025 | 2,090 | 400 | 2,490 | 4 November 2025 |
December 2025 | 2,090 | 400 | 2,490 | 2 December 2025 |
January 2026 | 2,090 | 400 | 2,490 | 3 January 2026 |
February 2026 | 2,090 | 400 | 2,490 | 4 February 2026 |
Application Process for Disabled Grant and Transport Allowance
The application procedure is similar to that of the existing disability grant, but with additional documentation required for the transport allowance.
Key Steps to Apply:
- Visit the nearest SASSA office or apply online via the SASSA services portal
- Bring original ID, medical records, and proof of address
- Complete Form SASSA-GRANT-DIS-2025 for Disability Grants
- Submit additional motivation letter for Transport Allowance
- Undergo a medical assessment by an approved state facility
- Await SMS or postal confirmation within 30–60 working days
What Supporting Documents Are Needed?
- Valid SA ID or refugee permit
- Proof of income (or affidavit of unemployment)
- Utility bill or local ward councillor letter for address verification
- Recent clinic or hospital records
- Medical assessment referral from SASSA
- Transport need declaration (education/job/clinic evidence)
Key Differences Between Old & Disabled Grant and Transport Allowance
The table below highlights how this upgraded system improves accessibility:
Feature | Old Disability Grant | New Disability + Transport |
---|---|---|
Monthly Basic Payment | R2,090 | R2,090 |
Transport Support Included | No | Yes – R400 monthly |
Age Criteria | 18+ | 18–35 only |
Application Mode | Manual only | Manual & Online |
Transport Proof Required | No | Yes |
Total Benefit Value | R2,090 | R2,490 |
Mobility Inclusion | None | Strong focus on access |
Active From | Ongoing | 28 July 2025 |
How This Change Affects Other Youth-Based Grants
The new transport allowance is specifically limited to those who already qualify for a disability grant. Other SASSA youth programs such as the SRD Grant (R350) and Child Dependency Support (for caregivers) are not affected by this update.
However, beneficiaries cannot double-dip:
- A person cannot receive both the SRD R350 and the Disability Grant
- The transport top-up is only valid for youth under 35
- If you’re already getting a SASSA Mobility Grant (for prosthetics or special devices), you may be excluded
What Happens If You Don’t Collect or Verify?
SASSA has warned that unverified or inactive accounts will be flagged for review. In some cases, the grant may be suspended or cancelled entirely.
Non-collection or failure to update:
- Payments must be collected within 90 days or they expire
- Biometric verification may be requested in person
- Incomplete transport documents will delay the R400 top-up
- Rejected applications can be appealed within 90 days via a SASSA office
Where to Get Help or Raise Complaints?
For queries about the R2,090 + R400 grant structure or to check application status, contact the following departments:
Department | Contact Details |
---|---|
SASSA National Call Centre | 0800 60 10 11 (Toll-Free) |
Email for Disability Queries | [email protected] |
Online Grant Portal | https://services.sassa.gov.za |
WhatsApp Support | 082 046 8553 |
Provincial Offices | Visit www.sassa.gov.za/contacts |
Postal Appeals | Private Bag X55662, Arcadia 0007 |
In-Person Helpdesk | Your nearest SASSA regional office |
Social Media Assistance | Facebook: @OfficialSASSA |
FAQs of Disabled Grant and Transport Allowance
Q1: Can someone older than 35 apply for this allowance?
No, the R400 transport allowance is strictly for persons aged 18–35 receiving the disability grant.
Q2: Will the transport allowance be paid separately from the R2,090?
No, both amounts will be paid together as a single monthly transfer of R2,490.
Q3: What if I’m disabled but not using transport currently?
You must still prove that you require transport for future access to health, education, or job activities.
Q4: How long does the application process take?
Generally 30–60 business days, depending on document completion and medical assessments.
Q5: Is the transport allowance permanent?
As of now, it is a pilot for 12 months and may be extended or revised after evaluation.