Millions of South Africans relying on SASSA grants are set to receive a payment increase from April 2025. The government has announced adjustments to the Old Age, Disability, and Child Support Grants, with beneficiaries receiving up to R135 extra per month.
With the rising cost of food, electricity, and transport, these increases aim to provide much-needed relief. If you or a loved one receive a SASSA grant, this guide will explain the new payment amounts, eligibility rules, payment dates, and how to ensure you continue receiving your benefits without delays.
Increases
Here’s a breakdown of the SASSA grant increases effective April 2025:
Grant Type | Previous Amount | New Amount (April 2025) | Increase |
---|---|---|---|
Old Age Grant (60-74 years) | R2,185 | R2,315 | R130 |
Old Age Grant (75+ years) | R2,200 | R2,335 | R135 |
Disability Grant | R2,185 | R2,315 | R130 |
War Veterans Grant | R2,185 | R2,315 | R130 |
Care Dependency Grant | R2,185 | R2,315 | R130 |
Child Support Grant | R530 | R560 | R30 |
Foster Care Grant | R1,180 | R1,250 | R70 |
These changes will help over 18 million South Africans afford basic necessities like food, healthcare, and school supplies.
Eligibility
Each SASSA grant has its own eligibility criteria. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Old Age Grant
- Must be 60 years or older
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Income limit: R96,840 per year (single) / R193,680 per year (married)
- Asset limit: R1.37 million (single) / R2.74 million (married)
Disability Grant
- Must be 18 to 59 years old
- Must have a permanent disability confirmed by a medical assessment
- Same income and asset limits as the Old Age Grant
Child Support Grant
- For primary caregivers of children under 18 years
- Income limit: R57,600 per year (single) / R115,200 per year (married)
- Must provide proof of caregiving and child’s birth certificate
Foster Child Grant
- For children legally placed in foster care by a court
- Grant is paid to the foster parent, regardless of income
Care Dependency Grant
- For caregivers of children with severe disabilities requiring full-time care
- Child must be under 18 years
- Income and asset limits apply, similar to other grants
Payments
Planning ahead helps avoid long queues and delays. Here are the confirmed payment dates:
Grant Type | Payment Date |
---|---|
Older Persons Grant | Thursday, 3 April 2025 |
Disability Grant | Friday, 4 April 2025 |
Children’s Grants | Saturday, 5 April 2025 |
Note: Depending on your bank or payout method, funds may take 2-3 working days to reflect.
Cards
If you still use the SASSA Gold Card, you must replace it before June 30, 2025 to avoid missing your grant payments.
Replace Your Gold Card
- Visit your nearest Post Office or SASSA-designated collection point
- Bring your original ID
- Bring your old Gold Card
- Request the new Postbank Black SASSA Card
Failing to replace your card may result in missed payments from April 2025.
Application
Visit a SASSA office or check sassa.gov.za to ensure you meet the criteria for the grant you want to apply for.
Gather Documents
- Valid South African ID or child’s birth certificate
- Proof of income (salary slip, bank statement, UIF letter)
- Medical report (for Disability or Care Dependency Grants)
- Court order (for Foster Child Grant)
Visit a SASSA Office
- Ask for the correct application form
- Complete the form with SASSA staff assistance
- Submit your documents and biometric verification
Wait for Approval
- Processing takes up to 90 days
- If approved, you will receive back pay from the date you applied
Currently, online applications are not available, so all applicants must visit SASSA offices in person.
FAQs
When do the new SASSA grant amounts start?
The new payment amounts take effect from April 2025.
How much is the Old Age Grant in 2025?
R2,315 per month for those aged 60-74, and R2,335 for those 75+.
What is the Child Support Grant in April 2025?
The Child Support Grant increases to R560 per month.
When is the deadline to replace my SASSA Gold Card?
The new deadline for Gold Card replacement is June 30, 2025.
How do I apply for a SASSA grant?
Visit a SASSA office with your ID and required documents to apply.