The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced an increase in grant payments for 2025, offering much-needed financial relief to millions of beneficiaries. This payment hike will impact various social grants, including the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, Child Support Grant, and more. If you rely on these grants or plan to apply, knowing the payment changes, eligibility criteria, and application process is essential.
Payment
SASSA has planned a two-phase increase for 2025 to help recipients cope with rising living costs. Here’s what to expect:
Phase 1: April 2025 – The initial increase will apply to all grant types.
Phase 2: October 2025 – Additional increments will be introduced for specific grants.
These adjustments are meant to support vulnerable citizens and ensure they can better manage daily expenses.
Breakdown
Below is a closer look at the revised SASSA grant payments for 2025:
| Grant Type | April 2025 Increase | October 2025 Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age (60-74 years) | R2,210 | R2,220 |
| Old Age (75+ years) | R2,240 | R2,250 |
| Disability Grant | R2,210 | R2,220 |
| Child Support Grant | R560 | No further increase |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,200 | No further increase |
These increases aim to help low-income households manage essential costs like food, transport, and healthcare.
Eligibility
To qualify for these increased payments, recipients must meet specific requirements based on the type of grant they receive. Here’s a breakdown:
Old Age Grant
- Must be 60 years or older.
- South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Annual income must not exceed R96,840 (single) or R193,680 (married).
- Must not be receiving care in a state institution.
Disability Grant
- Must have a permanent disability.
- Be between 18 and 59 years old.
- Provide a medical assessment report (not older than 3 months).
- Meet the means test requirements.
Child Support Grant
- Available to caregivers earning below R5,500 per month (single) or R11,000 per month (married).
- Child must be under 18 years old and living with the caregiver.
Foster Care Grant
- Given to caregivers of children placed in their care through a court order.
- The foster parent must reside in South Africa.
War Veterans Grant
- Available to individuals who served in the South African military before 1961.
- Must meet means test requirements.
Application
If you are not yet receiving a grant but believe you qualify, follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the nearest SASSA office with your ID and required documents.
- Complete the application form (provided for free).
- Submit supporting documents, such as:
- Proof of income
- Medical assessments (if applicable)
- Birth certificates (for child-related grants)
- Wait for assessment and approval, which can take up to 90 days.
- If approved, receive your grant through bank deposit or SASSA card.
For official information, visit www.sassa.gov.za.
Impact
The 2025 SASSA payment hike is expected to positively impact millions of South Africans by:
- Providing financial stability for pensioners and disabled individuals.
- Helping families afford essentials like food, school fees, and transport.
- Boosting the economy, as additional funds increase consumer spending.
- Reducing poverty, ensuring greater financial security for vulnerable populations.
This increase reflects the government’s commitment to supporting citizens in need. If you are eligible, make sure to stay informed and apply to receive the benefits you deserve.
FAQs
When will the SASSA payment hike take effect?
The increase will be implemented in April and October 2025.
How much will the Old Age Grant be in October 2025?
It will be R2,220 for ages 60-74 and R2,250 for 75+ years.
Will the Child Support Grant increase again in October?
No, it will remain at R560 after the April 2025 increase.
Where can I apply for a SASSA grant?
You can apply at your nearest SASSA office with the required documents.
How long does it take for a SASSA grant to be approved?
It can take up to 90 days for approval after applying.
