The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is introducing major changes in 2025 to improve financial support for vulnerable groups.
These changes include increased grant amounts and double payments during high-cost periods, such as the start of the school year and the festive season. Here’s everything you need to know about these updates.
Grants
SASSA provides a range of grants to help individuals and families in need. Here’s a quick look at the types of grants and their purposes:
- Older Persons Grant: Financial support for individuals aged 60 and above.
- Disability Grant: Aid for those with permanent or severe disabilities.
- War Veterans Grant: Support for veterans of World War II or the Korean War.
- Child Support Grant: Assistance for caregivers of children under 18.
- Foster Care Grant: Funds for foster parents with formal care orders.
- Care Dependency Grant: Support for caregivers of children with severe disabilities.
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant: Temporary relief for individuals in extreme financial distress.
Key Changes in 2025
Increased Grant Amounts
In April 2025, SASSA will increase the amounts for most grants to offset the rising cost of living. Here’s a breakdown of the new monthly amounts:
Grant Type | Old Amount (2024) | New Amount (2025) |
---|---|---|
Older Persons Grant | R2,190 | R2,210 |
Disability Grant | R2,190 | R2,210 |
Child Support Grant | R530 | R560 |
Foster Care Grant | R1,180 | R1,200 |
The Child Support Grant sees the largest percentage increase, reflecting the government’s focus on child welfare.
Double Payments
To help recipients during financially demanding times, double payments will be issued during specific periods.
For instance, January 2025 will feature double payments to assist with school-related expenses. The holiday season will also see additional financial support.
Payment Dates for Q1 2025
To help beneficiaries plan, here are the confirmed payment dates for January to March 2025:
Month | Older Persons Grant | Disability Grant | Children’s Grant |
---|---|---|---|
January 2025 | 3 January | 6 January | 7 January |
February 2025 | 4 February | 5 February | 6 February |
March 2025 | 4 March | 5 March | 6 March |
Eligibility Criteria
Each grant has specific requirements:
- Older Persons Grant: Available to South African citizens or permanent residents aged 60 or older, subject to income and assets tests.
- Disability Grant: Requires medical verification of severe disabilities.
- Child Support Grant: Caregivers of children under 18 must meet income threshold requirements.
- Foster Care Grant: Requires a valid foster care court order.
- SRD Grant: For unemployed individuals or those facing temporary financial distress.
Here’s a snapshot of the eligibility and payment structure:
Grant Type | Eligibility | Amount (2025) | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Older Persons Grant | Aged 60+, income and assets test | R2,210 | Double payment in January |
Disability Grant | Severe disability verified | R2,210 | Medical assessment required |
Child Support Grant | Caregivers, income threshold met | R560 | Largest increase |
Foster Care Grant | Formal foster care order | R1,200 | Double holiday payment |
These changes aim to enhance the financial security of South Africa’s most vulnerable groups.
The adjustments in 2025 show SASSA’s dedication to adapting to the economic challenges faced by beneficiaries.
By increasing grant amounts and introducing double payments during critical periods, the government continues to prioritize the well-being of its citizens.