Massive 50% Increase in SASSA Older Person Grants – Check Your New Amount for May 2025

Published on: April 24, 2025

Millions of senior citizens across South Africa are about to feel a little more secure. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced a major 50% increase to the Older Person Grant, effective May 2025.

This move brings hope and relief to older individuals who rely on this monthly payment as their primary source of income.

With rising food prices and ongoing inflation, this grant boost is a timely response from the government. If you or a loved one receive this grant, here’s everything you need to know about the new amounts, payment dates, and what steps to take next.

Why It Matters

The Older Person Grant is more than just a payment. It’s a lifeline. For many elderly South Africans, it’s the only financial support they receive.

The increase is part of the government’s 2025 budget plan to protect vulnerable groups and improve the lives of older citizens.

What’s driving the change?

Rising cost of food and healthcare
Calls for stronger elderly support
Increased demand for social protection
Focus on dignity and independence for the aging population

New Amounts

Here’s how the 50% increase breaks down across various SASSA grants, including the Older Person Grant and related categories:

Grant Type	Previous Amount (R)	Increase (R)	New Amount (R)
Older Persons (60–74 yrs)	2,180	1,090	3,270
Older Persons (75+ yrs)	2,200	1,100	3,300
War Veterans Grant	2,200	1,100	3,300
Disability Grant	2,180	1,090	3,270
Foster Child Grant	1,180	590	1,770
Child Support Grant	510	255	765
Grant-in-Aid	510	255	765

All increased payments will reflect automatically from May 2025, so if you’re already receiving a grant, you don’t need to reapply.

Who Qualifies?

To qualify for the SASSA Older Person Grant, you must:

Be 60 years or older
Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee with valid documentation
Not be receiving another social grant for yourself
Pass the SASSA means test (this checks your income/assets)
Not live in a state-funded institution

This grant is specifically designed for people who don’t have another source of financial support.

Payment Dates

Mark your calendars. Here’s when your May 2025 grant will be paid:

Grant Type	Payment Date
Older Persons Grant	3 May 2025 (Fri)
Disability Grant	6 May 2025 (Mon)
Children’s Grants	7 May 2025 (Tue)

Note: If your payment date falls on a public holiday or weekend, you’ll receive it the next business day.

Payment Methods

SASSA offers several secure ways to receive your money:

SASSA Card: Safe, easy to use at ATMs and shops
Bank Transfer: Paid directly into your personal bank account
Cash Send: For recipients without bank accounts (select providers only)

Make sure your banking or card details are up to date to avoid any payment delays.

How It Helps

A 50% increase in grant payments can make a big difference. Here’s how many beneficiaries use this boost:

Buying groceries and healthy meals
Paying for medications or doctor visits
Covering utility bills like water and electricity
Helping grandchildren or other family members
Avoiding high-interest loans or debt

This isn’t just good for individuals—it also helps local shops, clinics, and service providers in rural and township communities.

What You Should Do

Already a beneficiary? Here’s what to do next:

Check your payment on or after 3 May 2025
Update your details with SASSA if you’ve changed phone numbers or moved
Spend wisely—focus on essential needs
Report problems to the nearest SASSA office or call their helpline

Need help?

Toll-Free SASSA Helpline: 0800 60 10 11
Website: www.sassa.gov.za
Local Office: Bring your ID and SASSA card to your nearest office

The May 2025 increase in the SASSA Older Person Grant is a welcome step toward financial dignity for South Africa’s elderly population. If you’re eligible, rest assured that the system is set to work in your favor—no extra effort required.