How SASSA Asset and Means Tests Will Work in 2024. As recent changes in the 2024 SASSA asset and means tests come into effect, an increasing number of beneficiaries find themselves facing unexpected challenges. But what exactly are these changes, and why are they causing such confusion?
Exploring the Background
With the disbursement of South African Social Security Agency grants in May and June on the horizon, attention has turned to the intricacies of the 2024 SASSA asset and means tests.
The decision to implement facial recognition software to combat fraudulent behavior concerning the Special Relief of Distress (SRD) grants has sparked numerous inquiries from concerned individuals.
One recurring issue highlighted by these inquiries is the apparent difficulty beneficiaries face in contacting SASSA officials.
Whether attempting to resolve a query or pursue an appeal, individuals often encounter unanswered phones and daunting queues at SASSA offices, raising concerns about the accessibility of essential services, especially for elderly pensioners who have contributed to society throughout their lives.
What Constitutes as Income?
A significant point of contention regarding the 2024 SASSA asset and means tests revolves around the definition of income and assets by the agency.
What may not be immediately apparent to beneficiaries is that certain sources of income are factored into the means test, potentially pushing them over the eligibility threshold. SASSA considers the following sources as income:
- Money from private pensions.
- Earnings from employment or business activities.
- Financial assistance from friends or relatives deposited in bank accounts.
- Rental income from property.
- Maintenance payments received from former spouses.
- Compensation from entities like UIF, RAF, or COIDA.
Understanding Deductions
Before calculating income for the means test, SASSA mandates certain deductions to be made. These deductions typically include:
- Contributions towards UIF.
- Medical expenses covered by medical aid.
- Income tax payments to SARS.
- Contributions to retirement plans, annuities, and pension funds.
Income Thresholds for Grants
For each type of SASSA grant, there are specific income thresholds that determine eligibility. Here’s a breakdown of the maximum allowable income per grant category:
| Grant | Single Person | Married Couple |
|---|---|---|
| Older Person | R8,070 per month (R96,840 per year) | R16,140 per month (R193,680 per year) |
| Disability | R8,070 per month (R96,840 per year) | R16,140 per month (R193,680 per year) |
| Grant-in-Aid | R8,070 per month (R96,840 per year) | R16,140 per month (R193,680 per year) |
| War Veteran | R8,070 per month (R96,840 per year) | R16,140 per month (R193,680 per year) |
| Child Support | R5,000 per month (R60,000 per year) | R10,000 per month (R120,000 per year) |
| Care Dependency | R20,800 per month (R249,600 per year) | R41,600 per month (R499,200 per year) |
| Foster Child | Means Test not required | Means Test not required |
| Social Relief of Distress | R624 per month | Not applicable |
Asset Limits
Similarly, there are asset thresholds for each grant category. If the total assets exceed these limits, beneficiaries may not be eligible for the government grant. Here are the asset thresholds:
| Grant | Single Person | Married Couple |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age | R1,372,800 | R2,745,600 |
| Disability | R1,372,800 | R2,745,600 |
| Grant-in-Aid | R1,372,800 | R2,745,600 |
| War Veterans | R1,372,800 | R2,745,600 |
| Child Support | No asset portion | No asset portion |
| Care Dependency | No asset portion | No asset portion |
| Foster Child | No asset portion | No asset portion |
| Social Relief of Distress | No asset portion | No asset portion |
Conclusion
Understanding the intricacies of the 2024 SASSA asset and means tests is crucial for beneficiaries to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for government grants.
With clear guidelines on income thresholds and asset limits, individuals can navigate the application process more effectively and access the support they need.
