The 2025 SASSA payment hike is set to provide financial relief to millions of South Africans. With the rising cost of living, these adjustments will help beneficiaries manage their expenses more effectively.
If you’re a recipient of the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, Child Support Grant, or other social assistance programs, it’s essential to understand how these changes affect you.
This guide will break down the new payment amounts, eligibility criteria, and how to apply if you’re not yet receiving a grant.
Payment
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced a two-phase increase in grant payments for 2025:
- Phase 1 (April 2025) – The first increase will apply to all eligible grants.
- Phase 2 (October 2025) – A second increase for selected grants.
These adjustments aim to help grant recipients keep up with rising expenses, ensuring better financial security.
SASSA Grant Increases for 2025
| Grant Type | April 2025 Increase | October 2025 Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age (60-74) | R2,210 | R2,220 |
| Old Age (75+) | R2,240 | R2,250 |
| Disability Grant | R2,210 | R2,220 |
| Child Support | R560 | No further increase |
| Foster Care | R1,200 | No further increase |
These increases reflect the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable citizens and improving social welfare.
Eligibility
To qualify for the increased payments, beneficiaries must meet the specific eligibility criteria for each grant type.
Old Age Grant
- Must be 60 years or older.
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Annual income should not exceed R96,840 (single) or R193,680 (married).
- Must not be receiving care in a state institution.
Disability Grant
- Must have a permanent disability.
- Age must be between 18 and 59 years.
- Must provide a medical assessment report (not older than 3 months).
- Must meet means test requirements.
Child Support Grant
- Available to caregivers earning below:
- R5,500 per month (single)
- R11,000 per month (married)
- Child must be under 18 years old and living with the caregiver.
Foster Care Grant
- Granted to caregivers of children placed in their care through a court order.
- Foster parent must reside in South Africa.
War Veterans Grant
- Available to individuals who served in the South African military before 1961.
- Must meet means test requirements.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, visit the official SASSA website for more information.
Applying
If you are not currently receiving a grant but believe you qualify, here’s how to apply:
Steps to Apply
- Visit the nearest SASSA office with your ID and required documents.
- Complete the application form (this process is free of charge).
- Provide supporting documents, such as:
- Proof of income
- Medical assessments (for Disability Grant)
- Child’s birth certificate (for Child Support Grant)
- Wait for assessment and approval, which can take up to 90 days.
- Receive your grant if approved, either through bank payment or SASSA card.
For more details, check the SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za.
Impact
The 2025 SASSA payment hike is expected to bring significant benefits to grant recipients:
- Improved financial stability for pensioners and disabled individuals.
- Better support for families, covering essential costs like food and school fees.
- Economic boost, as increased spending will circulate within communities.
- Reduced poverty, offering greater financial security for vulnerable groups.
By staying informed and ensuring eligibility, South Africans can make the most of these new grant increases and secure the financial support they deserve.
