What is War Veterans Grant? [Application, Status, Eligibility]

Have you bravely served your country as a war veteran? The South African Security Agency (SASSA) offers grants to individuals who participated in World War I, World War II, or the Korean War and risked their lives in service.

This aid is available to South African citizens who are unable to support themselves, although applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.

SASSA also supports nearly every community in need across South Africa, providing monthly grants to those who are physically disabled due to war-related injuries or who face severe financial hardship.

Additionally, the SASSA Old Age Grant is available for individuals aged 60 or older or those with disabilities who do not receive any other social grants. Eligibility for this grant is determined by a means test, which assesses the applicant’s income, assets, and financial circumstances.

If you’re interested in applying for these grants, let me guide you through the details to ensure you submit your application on time

What is the SASSA War Veterans Grant?

The SASSA War Veterans Grant is a social grant provided to individuals who served in World War I, World War II, or the Korean War. This financial assistance aims to support veterans and their families, ensuring they can meet their basic needs as they age or deal with disabilities.

Key Features:

Monthly payment: Financial aid that supports basic living expenses.
Eligibility based on service and age/disability.
Special care needs: Can include those requiring medical or personal care due to injury or age.

SASSA Grant Check

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Eligibility Criteria for the War Veterans Grant

Before applying for the War Veterans Grant, ensure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. General

Citizenship or Residency: You must be a South African citizen or hold permanent residency status.
Residency Requirement: You should reside in South Africa.
No Other Social Grants: You should not be receiving any other social grant for personal use.
State Care: You should not be receiving support from any state care institution.

2. Age and Disability

To qualify for the War Veterans Grant, applicants must meet one of the following:

Be 60 years or older.
Have a disability that prevents them from being gainfully employed.

3. Service in Designated Wars

The grant is available only to individuals who served in:

World War I (1914-1918),
World War II (1939-1945),
Korean War (1950-1953).

4. Means Test

Applicants must undergo a means test, which determines whether they qualify based on income and assets:

Single applicants: Must have an income below a certain threshold and limited assets.
Married applicants: The combined income and assets of both partners are considered.

Note: The thresholds for income and assets are reviewed annually.

What is the Means Test for the SASSA War Veterans Grant

The SASSA means test assesses the financial situation of applicants, including income, assets, and other factors, to ensure the grant reaches those in genuine need. As of April 1, 2023, the means test has established two primary thresholds:

Assets Threshold:
A single applicant should not possess assets valued over R1,372,800.
A married couple’s combined asset value must remain below R2,745,600.
Income Threshold:
A single individual’s annual income must not exceed R96,840.
A married couple’s combined annual income should not surpass R193,680.

Each type of grant may have distinct criteria for its means test, ensuring that financial eligibility is thoroughly evaluated.

Application Process for the War Veterans Grant

1. Prepare the Necessary Documents

Applicants must provide several key documents to apply for the grant:

Identity document (ID) or valid South African passport.
Proof of war service (military records, certificates, etc.).
Proof of income: Pay slips or bank statements for the last three months.
Medical assessment: If applying on the basis of disability.

2. Submit Your Application

Applications can be made at the nearest SASSA office.
For those unable to visit in person, home visits can be arranged.
Online Application: Available through the official SASSA website or portal.

3. Application Review

After submission, the application undergoes a review process. This includes verifying the applicant’s military service, conducting the means test, and assessing medical documentation, if applicable.

4. Approval and Payment

If approved, payments will begin shortly after the notification of approval.
Payments are made monthly, either through a SASSA card, direct deposit, or other authorized payment methods.

Required Documents for the War Veterans Grant

When applying for the SASSA War Veterans Grant, you must submit the following documents (either originals or certified copies):

Identity Verification: If you do not possess an ID document, you may present a birth certificate, passport, or driver’s license.
Certificate of Service: Provide proof of your service in the war.
Disability Verification: If applicable, include a medical report or assessment to confirm your disability.
Proof of Marital Status:
If married, submit a marriage certificate and your spouse’s ID documents.
If divorced, provide the divorce decree.
In Case of Spousal Death: If your spouse passed away within the last five years, include a copy of the death certificate, their will, and the first and final liquidation and distribution accounts.
Proof of Residence: Submit documentation verifying your residence.
Income Documentation: Provide proof of income or dividends for yourself and your spouse, if applicable.
Asset Verification: Include documentation showing the municipal value of your property, if relevant.
Private Pension Proof: If applicable, submit documentation for any private pensions.
Bank Statements: Include bank statements for the last three months.
Employment Verification: If you were previously employed, provide a discharge certificate from your last employer or a Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) document (blue book).

Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to facilitate a smooth application process.

Additional Benefits for War Veterans

Apart from the monthly financial assistance, veterans may also be eligible for additional benefits, including:

Medical assistance: Access to public healthcare services.
Social relief of distress: Temporary aid in times of hardship.
Housing: Priority consideration for government housing programs.

These benefits aim to ensure that veterans receive comprehensive support beyond the financial grant.

What to Do If Your SASSA War Veterans Grant Application Is Not Approved

If your SASSA War Veterans Grant application is rejected and you believe the decision is incorrect, you can request a review of your application.

If SASSA denies this reconsideration, you have the right to appeal to the Ministry of Social Development within 90 days of receiving the rejection notice.

The Ministry will thoroughly review your appeal. If they side with you, they will overturn SASSA’s decision, and you will start receiving your grant payments. Should your appeal be denied, you will receive a written explanation outlining the reasons for the decision.

Understanding the SASSA War Veterans Grant Payment Process

Once your application for the War Veterans Grant is approved, payments will begin from the date you applied. SASSA releases a payment schedule each month, but there are no fixed dates for payments.

You can choose one of the following methods to receive your grant payments:

Direct Deposit: Funds can be deposited into your bank or Postbank account (note that banks may charge service fees).
Cash Withdrawal: You can collect your grant payment at SASSA-partnered retail outlets, such as Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, Checkers, Usave, and Spar.
Specific Institutions: Payments can also be received from certain institutions, such as old age homes and disability centers.

To receive your grant payments via a bank account, you must complete the Consent Form for SASSA Grant Bank Payment and provide the following documents:

Proof of Identity: This can include your ID document, birth certificate, or driver’s license.
Bank Account Information: The account must be in your name.
Bank Statement: A three-month bank statement showing your name and account number.

You can update your banking details or payment method whenever necessary. Simply visit the welfare office and complete the required form. Note that any changes will take effect the following month after verification.

If you are unable to collect your grant payments due to age or health reasons, you may nominate someone to collect the payments on your behalf.

Checking Your SASSA War Veterans Grant Balance

To stay informed about your grant funds, regularly checking your balance is essential. After your application is approved and you start receiving payments, you can check your balance using the following methods:

USSD Codes: Dial 1203210# or 12069277# on your cellphone.
ATM: Check your balance at any ATM (note that regular bank charges may apply).
WhatsApp: Contact SASSA via their WhatsApp number at 082 046 8553.
Phone: Call the SASSA toll-free number at 0800 601 011.

SASSA War Veterans Grant Reviews

SASSA may conduct periodic reviews of your grant based on the income you declared during your application. These reviews ensure that you continue to meet the means test criteria and that your circumstances have not improved. They also verify your status as a living beneficiary.

SASSA will notify you in writing three months before the review deadline, detailing the date and location for the review. If you receive your grant through a bank or institution, you must submit a life certificate annually to the SASSA office. For those who are bedridden, SASSA officials will conduct home visits for reviews. After the review, you will receive a compliance receipt.

Reasons for Grant Suspension

Your grant may be suspended for several reasons, including:

Changes in your circumstances.
Providing false information or committing fraud.
Failing to cooperate during the review process.
Outcomes from the review.
If the grant was approved in error.

Restoring Your Grant

If you believe your grant was suspended incorrectly, or if you disagree with SASSA’s decision, you can appeal to the Ministry of Social Development within 90 days of the suspension.

Reasons for Lapsing of the War Veterans Grant

Your War Veterans Grant may lapse under the following conditions:

Death: If you pass away, your grant will automatically end.
Inability to Prove Life: You must provide proof of life when requested. Your grant will undergo an annual review to confirm you are still living.
Failure to Collect Payments: If you do not collect your grant payments for three consecutive months, you can reapply to restart payments. However, if you exceed 90 days without collection, you must submit a new grant application.
Admission to Government-Funded Institutions: If you are admitted to a fully government-funded institution, such as a hospital or jail, your grant will lapse.
Extended Absence from the Country: If you leave the country for more than 90 days without notifying SASSA, your grant will lapse.
Increased Income or Assets: If your income or assets increase significantly, rendering you ineligible under the means test, your grant may lapse.
Adjustment for Care Institutions: If you are placed in a state-contracted care institution, your social grant will be reduced to 25% of the maximum amount, starting from the fourth month of your admission. Once discharged, your grant will revert to the full amount immediately.

Responsibilities of Grant Beneficiaries

As a SASSA grant holder, you have certain responsibilities to ensure continued support:

Update Personal and Financial Information: Keep SASSA informed of any changes to your circumstances, both personal and financial, to ensure the accuracy of your records.
Notify Changes in Address or Contact Details: Promptly inform SASSA of any updates to your physical address or contact information. Failure to do so can result in grant suspension, as SASSA will send notices and updates to the address provided in your application.
Provide Accurate Information: Always submit correct information to SASSA. They do not tolerate fraudulent activity, and any discrepancies may lead to interruptions or suspension of your grant.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, you can help prevent any issues with your grant and ensure that you continue to receive the support you need.

Conditions for Continuation of the Grant

To continue receiving the War Veterans Grant, beneficiaries must:

Undergo a means test annually.
Provide updated medical assessments if receiving the grant due to disability.
Report any changes in income, assets, or marital status to SASSA.

Termination of the Grant

The grant may be terminated if:

The beneficiary passes away.
The beneficiary no longer meets the means test requirements.
The beneficiary fails to comply with SASSA’s requirements for medical or financial reviews.

How to Appeal a War Veterans Grant Denial

If an application is denied, applicants have the right to appeal the decision:

Submit a written appeal within 90 days of receiving the denial notice.
Appeals must include all relevant documentation and an explanation for the disagreement.
Appeals can be submitted at any SASSA office or via their official online portal.

SASSA reviews appeals and may request additional information or documentation. The appeal process ensures that applicants who qualify for the grant receive their benefits

Check the Status of War Veterans Grant Application

After submitting your application, you can monitor its progress to see if it has been approved or declined. Once approved, regularly check the status of your upcoming grant payments. You can check your War Veterans Grant status through the following methods:

SASSA Website

Check Your Status Here

Moya App

Use the data-free method available in the app

SMS

Text SASSA at 082-046-8553.

Message SASSA at 082-046-8553.

Toll-Free Number

Call SASSA at 0800-60-10-11.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if I fail the means test?

If you do not meet the means test, you will not qualify for the War Veterans Grant. However, if your financial situation changes, you can reapply in the future.

2. Can the War Veterans Grant be combined with other social grants?

No, you cannot receive the War Veterans Grant alongside other permanent social grants such as the Old Age Pension or Disability Grant.

3. How long does the application process take?

The processing time varies but typically takes around 30 to 90 days from submission to the first payment.

Contact SASSA

Should you have additional questions, feel free to reach out to SASSA through the following channels:

Connect with the SASSA Toll-Free Call Centre at: 0800 60 10 11
Contact the SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2322
Email your queries to the SASSA Head Office: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Explore a list of SASSA offices across the country: SASSA offices near you

Luan Arno

I’m Luan Arno, the owner of Check-SASSA.co.za, where I help South Africans navigate SASSA services. As a father of two living in Johannesburg, I’m passionate about making essential information accessible to those in need. With a background in community service and digital communications, I aim to simplify the process of checking benefits. When I’m not working, I love exploring our beautiful country with my family. Thank you for visiting Check-SASSA!

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