Sandy
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipients can breathe easy—Budget 3.0 will not halt the scheduled increases in various social grants for the 2025/26 financial year.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana reaffirmed this during his third National Budget Speech held in Cape Town.
Rising Number of Beneficiaries by 2028
As outlined in the 2025 National Treasury budget overview, the total number of social grant beneficiaries—excluding SRD grant recipients—is expected to grow significantly, reaching approximately 19.3 million individuals by March 2028.
This reflects the government’s continued commitment to supporting vulnerable South Africans.
Detailed Breakdown of SASSA Grant Increases for 2025/26
Below is a summary of the updated SASSA grant amounts scheduled for the 2025/26 period:
| Grant Type | Current Amount (R) | Increased Amount (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age Grant | 2,185 | 2,315 |
| War Veterans’ Grant | 2,205 | 2,335 |
| Disability Grant | 2,185 | 2,315 |
| Foster Care Grant | 1,180 | 1,250 |
| Care Dependency Grant | 2,185 | 2,315 |
| Child Support Grant | 530 | 560 |
| Grant-in-Aid | 530 | 560 |
These grant increases are supported by a R1.6 billion boost in the overall social grants budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
SRD Grant Extension and Integration Plans
The R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, will be extended until 31 March 2026. A total of R35.2 billion has been allocated to fund this extension, which includes administrative costs.
Minister Godongwana emphasized that government efforts are focused on aligning the SRD grant with employment pathways. This may include a job-seeker allowance and enhancements to existing Active Labour Market Programmes.
“We aim not just to offer temporary relief,” said Godongwana. “Our objective is to pave the way to sustainable employment opportunities, empowering individuals to secure better futures for themselves and their families.”
SASSA SRD Payment Schedule for May 2025
Typically, the R370 SRD grant payments are made at the end of each month, starting from the 25th.
However, the agency avoids processing payments on weekends or public holidays. Since 25 May 2025 falls on a Sunday, the payments will be made earlier.
SASSA spokesperson Andile Tshona confirmed that the May 2025 SRD payments will occur between 23 and 28 May.
The latest updates from Budget 3.0 bring welcome news to millions of South Africans.
With a strong commitment to maintaining and increasing social grants, extending the SRD grant, and creating links to employment initiatives, the government aims to support both immediate relief and long-term empowerment.
SASSA beneficiaries can remain confident in the continued support and evolving opportunities for the years ahead.
FAQs
Will Budget 3.0 affect my SASSA grant in 2025/26?
No, all scheduled increases in SASSA grants will proceed as planned, unaffected by Budget 3.0.
How much is the new Old Age Grant for 2025/26?
The Old Age Grant will increase from R2,185 to R2,315.
When will the SRD grant be paid for May 2025?
The SRD grant will be disbursed between 23 and 28 May 2025, due to the 25th falling on a weekend.