SASSA confirmed that social grants would see two increments in 2025: the first in April and the second in October. These increases are part of the government’s efforts to support vulnerable populations amidst economic challenges.
Updated SASSA Grant Amounts for 2025
| Grant Type | Amount Before April 2025 (R) | Amount from April 2025 (R) | Amount from October 2025 (R) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Persons (60–74) | 2,185 | 2,315 | 2,335 |
| Older Persons (75+) | 2,205 | 2,335 | 2,355 |
| Disability Grant | 2,185 | 2,315 | 2,335 |
| War Veterans Grant | 2,205 | 2,335 | 2,355 |
| Care Dependency Grant | 2,185 | 2,315 | 2,335 |
| Foster Care Grant | 1,180 | 1,250 | 1,270 |
| Child Support Grant | 530 | 560 | 580 |
| Grant-in-Aid | 530 | 560 | 580 |
| SRD Grant | 370 | 370 | 370 |
These increases aim to alleviate financial pressure on beneficiaries and are part of the government’s broader social support strategy.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for SASSA grants remains consistent, focusing on South African citizens and permanent residents who meet specific criteria:
- Older Persons Grant: Individuals aged 60 years or older.
- Disability Grant: Persons with a permanent disability.
- Child Support Grant: Primary caregivers of children under 18 years.
- Foster Care Grant: Legal foster parents of children placed in their care.
- Care Dependency Grant: Caregivers of children with severe disabilities.
- War Veterans Grant: Veterans of World War II or the Korean War.
- Grant-in-Aid: Beneficiaries requiring full-time care from another person.
- SRD Grant: Unemployed individuals aged 18–59 years, not receiving other social grants or UIF benefits.
Applicants must provide valid identification, proof of income, and other relevant documents during the application process.
Payment Methods
SASSA offers multiple payment options to ensure beneficiaries receive their grants conveniently:
- Bank Deposits: Direct transfer into the beneficiary’s bank account.
- SASSA Gold Card: Withdrawals at ATMs and selected retail outlets.
- Cash Payments: Collection at designated pay points for those without bank accounts.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to use electronic payment methods to enhance safety and reduce queues at pay points.
Payment Schedule
SASSA releases a monthly payment schedule to inform beneficiaries of their grant disbursement dates. For June 2025, the payment dates are as follows:
- Older Persons Grant: 3 June 2025
- Disability Grant: 4 June 2025
- Children’s Grants and Others: 5 June 2025
Beneficiaries should note that payments are not processed on public holidays or weekends.
Public Response
The announcement of the grant increases has been met with a mix of relief and concern:
- Positive Feedback: Many beneficiaries appreciate the government’s efforts to adjust grants in line with inflation.
- Concerns: Some stakeholders argue that the increases may still fall short of meeting the rising cost of living.
- Calls for Permanent Solutions: Advocacy groups urge the government to consider more sustainable social support mechanisms.
The 2025 SASSA grant increases reflect the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations amidst economic challenges.
While the adjustments provide some relief, ongoing assessments and potential policy reforms may be necessary to ensure the sustainability and adequacy of social assistance programs in South Africa.
FAQs
When will the next SASSA grant increase occur?
The next scheduled increase is set for October 2025, as per the government’s announcement.
How can I update my banking details with SASSA?
Beneficiaries can update their banking information by visiting the official SASSA website or their nearest SASSA office with the required documentation.
Is the SRD grant still available?
Yes, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant remains at R370 per month and is available to eligible individuals until 31 March 2026.