For millions of citizens in South Africa, the SASSA grant is a vital support in life. Whether you are an elderly person, a person with a disability, a parent caring for a child, or a caregiver for someone in need—knowing the SASSA grant amount and payment date is vital to your household budget and financial planning.
The government has now announced the new grant rates, payment dates and the last date for Gold Card changes, which will come into effect from April 2025. Let us explain all the details in simple language.
Role of SASSA in Social Security
SASSA, i.e., the South African Social Security Agency, is a government body that provides financial assistance to the economically weaker sections of the country. This institution gives grants to the elderly, disabled, children and their caregivers so that they can meet the basic needs of life.
The main grants offered through SASSA are:
- Older Persons Grant – for citizens aged 60 and above
- Disability Grant – for people unable to work
- War Veterans Grant – for military servicemen aged over 60
- Care Dependency Grant – for carers of children with severe disabilities
- Foster Child Grant – for carers of legally adopted children
- Child Support Grant – for main carers of children under the age of 18
How much will the grant increase from April 2025?
The government has decided to increase the grant amount in two phases in the 2024/2025 financial year. The first phase will come into effect in April 2025 and the second in October 2025.
New grant amounts from April 2025:
| Grant Name | New Amount (in Rands) |
|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant (60–74 years) | R2,315 |
| Older Persons Grant (75+ years) | R2,335 |
| Disability Grant | R2,315 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,315 |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,250 |
| Child Support Grant | R560 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,315 |
This increase has been made in response to rising inflation, particularly food and energy prices, to provide some relief to families in need.
April 2025 payment dates – note
Grant payment dates in April have been changed as 5 April falls on a Saturday. Sassa has rescheduled the dates to reflect this:
- Elderly Grant – Wednesday, 2 April 2025
- Disability Grant – Thursday, 3 April 2025
- Children Grant (Child Support and Foster) – Friday, 4 April 2025
Adhering to these dates will help prevent congestion and technical difficulties. Options for receiving payments include:
- ATM withdrawals via SASSA/Postbank card
- Retail stores such as Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, etc
- Direct transfer to bank account
Important: Confirm status from SASSA website or SMS notification before making payment.
SASSA Gold Card Changes – Update on Time
Beneficiaries who are still using gold SASSA cards need to take note. By 20 March 2025, these cards will be discontinued and replaced with black Postbank SASSA cards.
Why is the change happening?
- More security in the new system
- Better technical convenience
- Reducing the chance of fraud
What happens if you miss the deadline?
- You can collect payments for April and May 2025 from post offices using your ID
- Money can be withdrawn from partner stores
- The card change process will continue till June 30, 2025
Get your card updated as soon as possible so that your payment process is not interrupted.
How to apply for a grant?
If you or a member of your family is eligible for a SASSA grant, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Check eligibility
- South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Income and asset limits
- Medical report (where required)
Step 2: Prepare documents
- ID or child’s birth certificate
- Proof of residence
- Proof of income (bank statement, salary slip)
- Medical report (if applicable)
Step 3: Apply
- Go to SASSA’s online portal
- Or visit the nearest SASSA office
Step 4: Checking and verification process
- Application review may take a few weeks
- Sometimes there may be home visits or additional interviews
Step 5: Payments begin
- If approved, monthly payments will be deposited into your bank account or SASSA card
- Receive updates by SMS
Conclusion: Be prepared and equipped
SASSA grants are not just about money—they are about a dignified life, education, health and family security is the key. With the changes coming from April 2025, it is vital that you:
- Update your card information in a timely manner
- Note payment dates carefully
- Apply early if eligible
Visit SASSA’s official website (www.sassa.gov.za) to get the latest updates and information on the application process.
Remember: with the right information and timely preparation, you can keep yourself and your family safe.
FAQs
Q. What is the current amount for the Older Persons Grant?
A. The Older Persons Grant is R2,315 for those aged 60–74, and R2,335 for those aged 75 and older.
Q. Who qualifies for the Disability Grant?
A. Individuals who are medically certified as disabled and meet the income and residency requirements can qualify.
Q. How much is the Child Support Grant in 2025?
A. The Child Support Grant is R560 per month per child.
Q. What is the Care Dependency Grant meant for?
A. It is for caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require full-time care.
Q. Can I apply for these grants online?
A. Yes, you can apply through the official SASSA website or visit your nearest SASSA office.