South African citizens who rely on government assistance just got a big reason to smile. In a major relief move, SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) has confirmed that double grant payments will be issued during the final week of May 2025.
This isn’t just a glitch in the system — it’s part of a special emergency support package rolled out to help citizens struggling with high living costs, food inflation, and missed payouts from earlier this year.
Let’s unpack exactly who qualifies, how much they’ll get, and when the payments will arrive.
Reason
So, what’s triggering this surprise boost? It’s not random generosity — this double payout is part of the government’s “Backpay Adjustment Strategy”. This initiative aims to tackle several issues all at once:
- Rising food and fuel prices
- Delays in April 2025 payments
- Inflation-linked adjustments
- Missed or failed disbursements
For many recipients, this means they’ll be receiving two months’ worth of grants in one go — a much-needed financial breather.
Eligibility
Not every SASSA recipient will get a double payment. Here’s who will:
- Beneficiaries who didn’t receive April 2025 payments due to technical issues or pending verification
- People formally approved for backpay
- Recipients of Old Age, Disability, Child Support, Foster Care, or War Veterans Grants
- Individuals who got an SMS, email, or notification from SASSA about the double payment
Note: If you’re receiving the SRD R370 grant, you’ll only get a double payout if you’ve been specifically told by SASSA. Otherwise, you’re not included.
Amounts
So, how much money are we talking about? Here’s a full breakdown of the standard monthly amounts vs the May 2025 double payout totals:
| Grant Type | Normal Monthly | Double Payment | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Pension | R2,180 | R4,360 | 60+ years |
| Older Persons (75+) | R2,200 | R4,400 | 75+ years |
| Disability Grant | R2,180 | R4,360 | Medically approved recipients |
| Child Support Grant | R530 | R1,060 | Children under 18 |
| Foster Child Grant | R1,180 | R2,360 | Foster-certified children |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,180 | R4,360 | Long-term illness children |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,200 | R4,400 | Approved war veterans |
| SRD Grant (selected) | R370 | R740 | Only for verified, notified cases |
Timing
When can you expect this bonus cash to show up? Here’s the full payout calendar for the end of May:
| Grant Type | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Old Age & War Veterans | 27–28 May 2025 |
| Disability Grants | 29 May 2025 |
| Child Support Grants | 30 May 2025 |
| Foster/Other Grants | 31 May 2025 |
If your bank details are verified, payments will land straight in your account. If not, you’ll have to collect at your nearest SASSA partner like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Boxer, or the Post Office.
Check
Want to know if you’re on the lucky list? It’s easy to check:
- Visit www.sassa.gov.za
- Click “Check My Status”
- Enter your ID number and phone number
- Look for a status update like “Double Payment Approved”
If it’s there, you’ll see both April and May grants listed — and the full combined amount.
Problems
Some people might still face hiccups. Here are common issues that could delay your double grant:
- Incorrect or outdated bank info
- Wrong cellphone number linked to your profile
- Application still under review
- Missed payment collection dates
Make sure to update your details directly on the SASSA portal or visit your nearest office.
Example
Take Thandi from KwaZulu-Natal — a single mom who missed her April Child Support Grant. After checking her SASSA status online, she saw the “Double Payment Approved” message. Sure enough, on 30th May, she got R1,060 instead of her usual R530 — exactly what she needed to catch up on food and school expenses.
The government’s quick response here means relief is coming — not just promises.
FAQs
Who qualifies for SASSA double grant?
Only those with missed April payments or backpay approval.
When will I get the double payment?
Between 27th–31st May 2025, depending on your grant type.
How do I check my double payment status?
Visit sassa.gov.za, enter your ID and phone, and check status.
Will SRD R370 grant get a double payout?
Only selected, notified SRD recipients will get a double payment.
Where can I collect my grant if unbanked?
Use SASSA-partnered stores or the Post Office near you.
