7.5. Can people with HIV and AIDS get a disability grant?

* A disability grant is only given to someone who is unable to work.
* You can't automatically get a grant just because you are living with HIV.
* If you are unemployed but are still fit to work, even though you have HIV or AIDS, you will not get a social grant.
* If you become too ill to continue working you can then apply for a grant.
* If your CD4 count falls below 200, you can qualify for this grant. If you go on ARVs and your CD4 count rises above 200, you can still get the grant if a doctor says that it is necessary.
* No one is allowed to disclose any information about you applying for a disability grant. This information is confidential. If they tell anyone else, they are breaking the law and you have the right to take action against them and the Department.
The National AIDS Helpline provides a confidential, anonymous 24-hour toll-free telephone counselling, information and referral service for those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS. The operator can give you a list of organisations providing support and care to HIV positive people and their families. Call 0800 012 322.
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