The South African Integrated Household Study is a survey of sampled South African households. The study aims to learn about the living conditions of households. Some areas to be investigated are the structure of households and family dynamics within households; the financial situation of households - including income and expenditure patterns; the respondents’ or household members’ physical and mental health status; their social support networks and social integration; and their satisfaction with life in general. The findings of the study will give us, as well as give policy makers and the planners and providers of services, an understanding of the living circumstances and situations of households and individuals within households.