If you’re 60 or older—or supporting someone who is—the SASSA Older Persons Grant is one of South Africa’s most vital support programs. Originally set at R2090 earlier in 2025, it has now been increased to R2315 per month to help seniors keep up with inflation and rising costs.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the grant in 2025: who qualifies, how to apply, what the updated payment amounts are, and when to expect your monthly grant.
Overview
Topic | Details |
---|---|
Grant Name | SASSA Older Persons Grant |
Previous Amount | R2,090 |
New Amount (60–74) | R2,315 per month |
New Amount (75+) | R2,335 per month |
Payment Frequency | Monthly |
2025 Payment Dates | 1st–3rd of each month |
Eligibility Age | 60 years and older |
Means Test | Required |
Application Site | SASSA office |
SASSA Helpline | 0800 60 10 11 |
Website | sassa.gov.za |
This grant is a right, not a handout—and it remains one of the strongest tools available to fight poverty among the elderly in South Africa.
Older Persons Grant
The SASSA Older Persons Grant is a monthly pension aimed at supporting South Africans aged 60 and above who have limited or no income. This monthly grant helps cover the cost of daily necessities such as food, medication, and transport.
As of April 1, 2025, the grant amount was officially increased:
- R2,315 for beneficiaries aged 60 to 74
- R2,335 for beneficiaries aged 75 and older
These increases were part of the National Treasury’s effort to address rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.
Grant Increases
Year | Amount (60–74) | Amount (75+) |
---|---|---|
2022 | R1,980 | R2,000 |
2023 | R2,080 | R2,100 |
2024 | R2,090 | R2,110 |
2025 | R2,315 | R2,335 |
While the government has made efforts to increase the grant annually, many advocacy groups believe the amount still falls short of covering real living costs.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for the SASSA Older Persons Grant, you must meet both basic eligibility criteria and pass the means test.
Basic Requirements
- Be 60 years or older
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Reside in South Africa
- Not live in a state institution (such as a government-funded care home)
- Not be receiving another personal SASSA grant
Means Test (2025)
SASSA checks income and assets to determine financial need:
- Single person:
- Income: R96,840/year or less
- Assets: R1,372,800 or less
- Married couple:
- Combined income: R193,680/year or less
- Combined assets: R2,745,600 or less
SASSA will calculate these values based on the documents you provide during your application.
Payment Dates
Here are the confirmed Older Persons Grant payout dates for 2025:
Month | Payment Date |
---|---|
January | 3 Jan (Friday) |
February | 4 Feb (Tuesday) |
March | 4 Mar (Tuesday) |
April | 2 Apr (Wednesday) |
May | 2 May (Friday) |
June | 3 Jun (Tuesday) |
July | 2 Jul (Wednesday) |
August | 1 Aug (Friday) |
September | 2 Sep (Tuesday) |
October | 2 Oct (Thursday) |
November | 3 Nov (Monday) |
December | 2 Dec (Tuesday) |
Payments are usually made on the first business day of each month. It’s important to collect or use your grant within three months to avoid deactivation.
Inflation
In 2025, South Africa is experiencing an inflation rate of around 5.7%, impacting essentials such as:
- Food and groceries
- Public transportation
- Electricity and water
- Healthcare and medication
While the increase to R2,315 offers some relief, financial experts suggest the grant amount should ideally be over R2,500 to truly meet older adults’ basic living costs.
How to Apply
Follow these simple steps to apply:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office
Use the office locator on sassa.gov.za to find your nearest branch. - Bring These Documents
- South African ID or valid refugee permit
- Proof of residence
- Bank account details
- Proof of income and assets (bank statements, pension slips, etc.)
- Complete the Application
A SASSA official will help you fill out the form and submit your documents. - Get Confirmation
Keep the receipt you’re given—it serves as proof of application. - Wait for Approval
It may take up to 90 days. If approved, payments are backdated to your application date.
Payment Delays
To make sure your grant continues without disruption:
- Keep your SASSA Gold Card active
- Notify SASSA if your bank account or contact details change
- Respond promptly to SASSA reviews or documentation requests
- Collect or use your grant at least once every 90 days
Assist
If you’re a caregiver, social worker, or family member:
- Accompany seniors to SASSA offices
- Assist with checking eligibility or completing forms
- Submit applications on behalf of seniors (with medical proof)
- Monitor payment statuses and help resolve delays
Remember: SASSA services are free. No one should ever charge a fee to “help” with grant applications.
FAQs
What is the new SASSA Older Persons Grant amount in 2025?
It’s R2,315 for those aged 60–74 and R2,335 for those 75+.
Who qualifies for the Older Persons Grant?
South African citizens or residents aged 60+ who meet the means test.
When are SASSA grants paid each month?
Usually between the 1st and 3rd of every month.
How long does it take to get approved?
Up to 90 days, with payments backdated to your application date.
Can I apply on behalf of an elderly person?
Yes, with a medical letter confirming they can’t apply themselves.