What is the maximum income to qualify for SASSA?

In the world of social security, the difference between an “Approved” and “Declined” status often comes down to a single number.

This number is known as the Income Threshold. To ensure that limited government resources reach those in the greatest financial need, the agency uses a strict “Means Test” to evaluate every applicant each month.

Understanding the maximum income limit is not just about knowing a figure; it is about understanding how the system views your bank account.

Many applicants are surprised to find their grants declined even when they are unemployed, simply because they did not understand how “Alternative Income” is calculated.

This guide provides an authoritative breakdown of the current limits and the technical steps to ensure your financial profile aligns with the requirements.

The Current Maximum Income Threshold: R624

As of the current fiscal period, the maximum income threshold for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is R624 per month.

This figure is based on the “Food Poverty Line,” a statistical measure used to identify individuals who cannot afford the minimum required daily energy intake. If your monthly income—or the total amount of money entering your bank account—exceeds R624, the automated system will systematically decline your application for that specific month.

Understanding the “Means Test”: How the System Audits You

The “Means Test” is not a one-time check; it is a recurring monthly audit. The agency’s Eligibility Engine cross-references your ID number with various financial databases to determine if you have exceeded the R624 limit.

What the System Counts as Income:

1. Bank Deposits: Any money transferred into your linked bank account, regardless of the source.
2. Investment Dividends: Income from shares or formal savings.
3. Other Social Grants: If you receive a pension or disability grant, your income is already considered above the threshold (Note: Child Support Grants are generally excluded from this calculation).
4. Employment Records: The system checks the UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) and SARS (Revenue Service) to see if you are registered as receiving a formal salary.

The Danger of “Alternative Income” Flags

The most common reason for a decline is the “Alternative Income Source Identified” code. This happens when the digital audit finds a “credit” in your bank records that pushes your balance over the R624 mark.

Common Scenarios That Trigger a Decline:

• Gifts from Family: If a relative sends you R700 to help with expenses, the system views this as R700 of income, which is over the R624 limit.
• Cash Deposits: Depositing cash into your own account for safe-keeping can be flagged as “income.”
• Acting as a “Middleman”: If you allow a friend to use your bank account to receive their wages or a transfer, the system identifies that money as your income.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Ensure Your Income Profile is Correct

To maintain your eligibility, you must manage your financial profile with precision. Follow these steps to ensure the agency’s automated audit correctly identifies your status.

Step 1: Audit Your Own Bank Statements

Review your last three months of bank statements. Look for any “Inward Credits” (deposits). If you see any month where the total deposits exceed R624, you can expect a “Declined” status for that period.

Step 2: Clear Your Records with UIF and SARS

If you were previously employed, the system might still see you as “active” in the labor database.

• UIF: Ensure your previous employer has marked you as “Deceased” or “Resigned/Terminated” in the system.
• SARS: If you are registered for tax but earn nothing, ensure your tax status reflects your current situation.

Step 3: Separate Your Finances

Do not allow anyone else to use your bank account for their transactions. Every cent that enters your account is viewed as “Income available for your support.” To keep your status “Approved,” your account should only reflect your personal financial reality.

What to Do If You Are Declined But Your Income is Below R624

The automated system is not perfect. If your actual income is below R624, but you have been declined for “Alternative Income,” you must take administrative action.

1. Identify the Source: Check which month was declined and look at your bank statement for that specific month.
2. Lodge an Appeal: You have 90 days to appeal. In your appeal, you will state that your income does not exceed the threshold.
3. Prepare Documentation: Keep your bank statements ready. If the Independent Tribunal requests a manual review, these statements are your primary proof of eligibility.

Is the Threshold Subject to Change?

The R624 threshold is tied to national economic policy and inflation adjustments. While there are ongoing discussions regarding raising this limit to the “Upper Bound Poverty Line,” any change must be officially gazetted. Until an official announcement is made by the relevant government ministry, the R624 limit remains the authoritative standard for the Means Test.

Conclusion: Mastering the Rules of Eligibility

The maximum income threshold is the most important rule in the grant system. By understanding the R624 limit and how the “Means Test” operates, you can proactively manage your bank account and avoid unnecessary declines. Accuracy in your financial records is the best way to ensure that the system recognizes your need and processes your support without interruption.