Starting next month, South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) old-age grant recipients will receive an additional R90 as part of an approved increase aimed at enhancing financial support for pensioners. Many pensioners may be concerned about whether they need to reapply to continue receiving their payments. This adjustment comes at a challenging time for many households relying on these grants, offering some relief to beneficiaries and those they support. If you are already receiving a Sassa old-age grant, there is no need to reapply in April 2025. Your payments will automatically reflect the increased amount without any additional steps required on your part.
Key Takeaways
- SASSA Old-Age Grant Increase: The R90 increase in the SASSA old-age grant will take effect from April 2024, with no need for current beneficiaries to reapply. Future increases are expected on 1 April and 1 October 2025, but exact figures will be confirmed in the Finance Minister’s 12 March 2025 Budget Speech.
- Projected 2025 Grant Adjustments: The SASSA Old-Age Grant, Disability Grant, and War Veterans Grant are expected to increase to R2 290 in April 2025, followed by a R10 increase in October 2025. The Child Support Grant is projected to rise to R560, while the SRD Grant is likely to remain at R370 throughout 2025.
- Eligibility and Grant Collection: To be considered for the Older Person’s Grant, one must have reached the age of 60 or older, meet means test requirements, and not be receiving other social grants. Payments can be collected through bank deposits, major retail stores, or mobile cash pay points, ensuring accessibility for beneficiaries.
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What You Should Know About Grant Increases in 2025
Recipients of Sassa grants can expect their payments to increase on 1 April and 1 October 2025. The first adjustment will take effect in April, when Sassa revises grant amounts to keep pace with the rising cost of living.
The exact figures for the 2025 grant increases have not yet been announced. These adjustments are typically disclosed by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana during the annual Budget Speech, which has been postponed to 12 March 2025.
Historically, increases range between R10 and R90, depending on the specific Sassa grant.
Current Sassa Grant Amounts
- Older Persons Grant: R2 190
- Older Persons (75 years and older): R2 210
- Disability Grant: R2 190
- War Veterans Grant: R2 210
- Child Support Grant: R530
- Care Dependency Grant: R2 190
- Foster Care Grant: R1 180
- Child Support Grant (Top-Up): R530 + R250
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant: R370
These amounts are expected to increase in 2025, with the exact figures to be confirmed after the Budget Speech.
Expected SASSA Grant Increases for 2025
Millions of South Africans depend on SASSA grants for financial support. With the cost of living continuing to rise, many are anticipating adjustments to these grants in the upcoming year. Based on past trends and economic factors, it is expected that SASSA will implement moderate increases from April 2025, providing some relief to beneficiaries. Below are the projected adjustments, subject to confirmation in the Finance Minister’s budget speech:
- SASSA Old-Age Grant (Ages 60–74): Expected to increase to R2 290 in April 2025, with a further R10 adjustment to R2 300 in October 2025.
- SASSA Old-Age Grant (Ages 75 and Older): Expected to increase to R2 310 in April 2025, with a further R10 adjustment to R2 320 in October 2025.
- SASSA Disability, Childcare Dependency, and War Veterans Grants: Expected to increase to R2 290 in April 2025, with a further R10 adjustment to R2 300 in October 2025.
- SASSA Child Support Grant: Expected to increase to R560 in April 2025, with no further increase in October 2025.
- SASSA Child Support Top-Up Grant: Expected to increase to R265 in April 2025, with no further increase in October 2025.
- SASSA Foster Care Grant: Expected to increase to R1 240 in April 2025, with no further increase in October 2025.
- SASSA Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant: Expected to remain unchanged at R370 for the duration of 2025.
While these adjustments may provide some relief, they remain modest in comparison to rising living expenses. Beneficiaries should stay informed through official SASSA announcements for confirmation of these expected changes.
Key Information on the Old Age Grant Application Process
To apply for the Old Age Grant, you must complete an application form at your nearest SASSA office and submit the necessary supporting documents. These include your official identity document (ID). If you do not have an ID, you must complete an affidavit on a SASSA form in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths who is not a SASSA official.
In addition, a signed and sworn statement from a respected figure, like a councillor, traditional leader, social worker, minister of religion, or school principal, is needed to confirm your name and age. A SASSA official will take your fingerprints, and you will need to apply for an ID at the Department of Home Affairs, as failure to do so may result in the suspension of your grant.
Other required documents include proof of your marital status (if applicable), address, income, dividends, and assets, including the value of any property you own. If you receive a private pension, you must provide proof. A bank statement for the last three months is also required. If you were previously employed, you must submit your Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) ‘blue book’ or a discharge certificate from your last employer.
If your spouse passed away within the last five years, a copy of their death certificate, will, and any relevant liquidation and distribution accounts must be provided. Ensuring that all required documents are submitted will help prevent delays in the processing of your Old Age Grant application.
Eligibility Requirements for the Older Person’s Grant
- Citizenship and Residency: Applicants must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or recognized refugees who live within the borders of South Africa.
- Age Requirement: You must be 60 years or older.
- Institutional Status: You cannot be residing in a state-run institution.
- Other Grants: You must not be receiving any other social grant payments.
- Means Test Compliance: If you are married, your spouse’s financial situation must meet the means test requirements.
- Identity Verification: You must provide a valid South African identity document (ID).
- Income Limit: Your total annual income must not exceed R86 280 if you are single or R172 560 if married.
- Asset Limit: The total value of your assets must not exceed R1 227 600 if you are single or R2 455 200 if married.
Are you waiting for your payment but unsure of its status? Checking your grant status online can save you time and worry. Stay updated on the status of SASSA R350/R370 to ensure your payments are processed on time and avoid unnecessary delays.
Payment Dates for April 2025
SASSA has allocated specific payment dates for pension grants to ensure a structured disbursement process. For April 2025, the Old Age Pension Grant will be paid on:
- 3 April 2025 – Payments will commence for all pensioners.
SASSA follows a system where pension grants are paid first before other grants to prioritise elderly beneficiaries.
Where to Collect Your Grant
Bank Account
If you receive a permanent social grant, you can choose to have the funds deposited directly into your bank account. This method allows you to access your money at any time once Sassa has processed the payment. It is a reliable and secure option, ensuring you have control over when and how you withdraw your funds.
Mobile Cash Pay Points
Another collection method is through mobile cash pay points, which are set up in various locations. However, this option is more restrictive, as grant payments are only available for collection during limited hours on specific days each month.
Retail Outlets
Social grants can also be collected from selected retail stores across South Africa. These include Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, Usave, OK, and Checkers. This option provides convenience, as you can withdraw your grant while shopping for essentials.
Why Your SRD Grant Application May Be Rejected
Your Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant application may be declined if you do not meet certain eligibility criteria. Common reasons for rejection include:
- Employment and Tax Contributions: If Sassa finds that you are employed and have contributed to income tax.
- Personal Information Mismatch: If your details do not match Department of Home Affairs records.
- Receiving Another Social Grant: If you already receive a social grant (excluding a child support grant).
- NSFAS Beneficiary: If you receive funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
- UIF Benefits: If you qualify for or receive UIF benefits, including TERS payments or UIF contributions.
- Government Employment: If you work for a government institution.
- Age Limit: If you do not meet the age requirements or are over 60 years old.
- Registered as Deceased: If listed as deceased in Home Affairs records.
- Bank Account Balance: If you receive more than R624 in your account within a month.
Sassa advises against immediately reapplying after a rejection, as the system will automatically decline duplicate applications.
Many pensioners wonder if they can supplement their grant with a loan. The answer isn’t straightforward, but understanding the risks and options can help. Learn more about whether you can apply for a loan while receiving a SASSA grant and what financial institutions consider before approving such loans.
How to Appeal a Rejected SRD Grant Application
If you believe your application was unfairly rejected, you should submit an appeal rather than reapplying. Appeals can be lodged through the Sassa appeals website, where you will need to provide supporting documents to justify your eligibility. These may include proof of income if applicable, identity documents, and any other relevant information. Ensuring that all details are accurate and complete will improve your chances of a successful appeal.
Conclusion
With the upcoming SASSA grant increases, beneficiaries can expect some financial relief, although the adjustments remain modest in comparison to the rising cost of living. The R90 increase in the Old-Age Grant takes effect in April 2024, with further adjustments expected in April and October 2025. The exact figures for these increases will be confirmed during the 12 March 2025 Budget Speech. Beneficiaries should stay informed through official SASSA announcements and ensure that their personal and banking details are correct to avoid any disruptions in receiving payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to reapply for my SASSA grant after the increase?
No, if you are already receiving a SASSA grant, you do not need to reapply. The increased amount will be automatically adjusted in your payments, and there are no additional steps required on your part.
When will the next SASSA grant increase take effect?
The next scheduled increases are set for 1 April 2025 and 1 October 2025. These adjustments are made annually to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation and the rising cost of living. The final grant amounts will be confirmed in the March 2025 Budget Speech.
Will the SRD grant increase in 2025?
At this stage, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is expected to remain at R370 throughout 2025. There have been no official announcements regarding an increase, but any updates will be communicated by SASSA in due course.
How can I check if I qualify for an old-age grant?
To qualify for the Older Person’s Grant, you must be 60 years or older, a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognised refugee, and must not be receiving any other social grant (excluding a child support grant). You must also pass a means test, which assesses your total income and assets to determine eligibility.
Where can I collect my SASSA grant?
You can receive your SASSA grant through several collection methods. The funds can be deposited directly into your bank account, allowing for secure and convenient access. Alternatively, you can collect your grant at retail stores such as Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Boxer, Usave, OK, and Checkers, or through mobile cash pay points in certain areas.
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