Did you know that children without birth certificates and caregivers without identity documents can still apply for SASSA grants? Many people are unaware of this option, which hinders them from accessing social grants. If you meet the criteria for a SASSA grant but lack your child’s birth certificate or your own ID document, keep reading as we tell you how to apply without them.
What the law says about applying for social grants without an ID document or birth certificate
According to Section 27(1)(c) of the South African Constitution, everyone has the right to have access to social security, including social assistance if they cannot care for themselves or their dependents. Section 28(1)(c) of the Constitution further states that every child has the right to basic nutrition, shelter, basic health care services, and social services.
The South African government provides social services in the form of various grants, including the Child Support Grant, Child Support Grant Top-Up, Care Dependency Grant, and Foster Child Grant. These grants cater to different categories, such as children from poor households, orphaned children living with relatives, children with disabilities, and children placed in foster custody by the court. You can apply for these grants either at a SASSA office or online.
Typically, when applying for these grants, you are required to submit the child’s birth certificate and the caregiver’s identity document. However, there are instances where these documents are not available. To ensure that candidates without these documents are not deprived of their right to a social grant, the Regulation 13(1) was formed.
Reasons why some children may not have a birth certificate
Several reasons can contribute to a child not having a birth certificate. These reasons include:
- Being born at home in a rural area
- Being orphaned or abandoned and cared for by relatives
- Being cared for by unmarried fathers after the mother passed away or abandoned the child
- Being born to mothers who do not have their own identity document
How to apply for a social grant without an ID document or birth certificate
If you do not have an ID document or birth certificate but would like to apply for a social grant, follow these steps:
- Visit your nearest SASSA office and inform the official that you do not have an ID document or birth certificate. Let them know that you would like to apply for a social grant under Regulation 13(1). The SASSA official will guide you on how to apply using an affidavit in place of proof of identification.
Which documents can applicants provide instead of birth certificates or ID documents?
When applying without birth certificates or ID documents, applicants will need to fill in the affidavit provided by SASSA. In addition to the affidavit, you will be required to submit any of the following documents as alternative proofs:
- Roads to Health clinic card
- Baptism certificate
- Letter from a reputable person who knows the child and the applicant (e.g., councillor, social worker, religious minister, school principal, or traditional leader)
- Recent school term report or proof of attendance at school (SASSA documents and affidavits are available here)
- Copy of your section 24 permit if you are a refugee
What steps should I take after my SASSA grant is approved?
Once your SASSA grant is approved, the next step is to visit the Department of Home Affairs to enquire about how to apply for an ID document or birth certificate. It may be helpful to get a referral letter from SASSA to expedite the application process at Home Affairs. Remember to keep your receipt or proof of application.
After receiving your ID document or birth certificate, take a copy of the receipt or letter to your SASSA office and request them to update your application with it.
Conclusion
By utilizing Regulation 13(1) and the alternative documents mentioned, you can apply for SASSA grants even without an ID document or birth certificate. The South African government recognizes the importance of providing social assistance to those in need, and this exception ensures that individuals who lack certain documents are not excluded from accessing essential grants.
For more detailed information and answers to common questions, we recommend reading the booklet by the Children’s Institute and the Legal Resources Centre (LRC).
Remember, it’s always advisable to consult with SASSA officials for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements.
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