The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced an increase in the amounts for most of its social grants for the 2025/26 year. This update is aimed at helping South Africans cope with the ever-rising cost of living. However, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant remains at R370, unchanged from the previous year.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the updated SASSA grant amounts for 2025, the payment schedule, how to replace your old SASSA Gold Card, and the process for applying for a SASSA grant.
Summary Table Of SASSA Grant Amounts for 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Types | Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, Child Support Grant, War Veterans Grant, SRD Grant |
| New Grant Amounts (2025) | Varying amounts ranging from R370 to R2,330 |
| Payment Dates (April 2025) | 2–4 April 2025 (for different grant types) |
| Gold Card Replacement Deadline | May 31, 2025 |
| Official Website | www.sassa.gov.za |
| Contact Information | Call: 0800 60 10 11, Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za |
2025 SASSA Grant Amounts
The following are the new grant amounts for 2025:
| Grant Type | New Amount (2025) |
|---|---|
| Old Age Grant (60–74 years) | R2,315 |
| Old Age Grant (75+ years) | R2,330 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,330 |
| Disability Grant | R2,315 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,315 |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,250 |
| Child Support Grant | R560 |
| Grant-in-Aid | R560 |
| SRD Grant | R370 |
Notes:
- Older persons aged 75 and above receive an additional R15 compared to those aged 60–74 years.
- SRD Grant remains R370, providing assistance to individuals facing severe financial distress.
These changes are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to alleviate financial pressures on vulnerable groups, including the elderly, disabled individuals, and children.
April 2025 Payment Schedule
SASSA has staggered the April 2025 payments to help manage queues and improve access for beneficiaries. The payment dates are as follows:
- Wednesday, April 2: Older Persons Grant
- Thursday, April 3: Disability Grants
- Friday, April 4: Children’s Grants (including Child Support and Foster Care Grants)
Important Reminder:
- SASSA Gold Cards will remain valid until May 31, 2025. Beneficiaries are encouraged to withdraw or transfer their funds before the expiry date to avoid losing access to any remaining balance.
- Gold cards can be used at ATMs or retailers to access funds. However, after May 31, these cards will no longer be functional.
May 2025 Payment Dates
For May 2025, SASSA will begin disbursing payments according to the following schedule:
- Friday, May 2: Older Persons Grant
- Monday, May 5: Disability Grants
- Tuesday, May 6: All remaining grants, including Child Support, Foster Care, SRD, and Grant-in-Aid.
Gold Card Transition Deadline
If you are still using a SASSA Gold Card, it is crucial to replace it before May 31, 2025. After this date, the gold cards will no longer work for withdrawing your grants.
How to Replace Your SASSA Gold Card
Beneficiaries need to ensure they switch to the new black Postbank card before the May 31, 2025 deadline. Here’s how to replace your card:
Option 1: Go to Participating Retailers
You can visit popular retailers such as Shoprite, Pick n Pay, or Spar to swap your old gold card for a new black Postbank card.
Option 2: Dial 120355#
This is a toll-free number you can dial to find the nearest Postbank card replacement point.
Option 3: Link Your SASSA Grant to Your Personal Bank Account
If you wish to have your grants deposited directly into your bank account, visit a SASSA office with the following documents:
- A valid South African ID or birth certificate (for children).
- Proof of bank account (bank statement, proof of account ownership).
Once your documents are verified, your SASSA grant will be linked to your bank account.
Quick Tip:
If you still have funds on your old gold card, make sure to withdraw or transfer them to your new Postbank card before May 31 to avoid losing any remaining balance.
How to Apply for a SASSA Grant in 2025
If you are new to applying for SASSA grants, here’s what you need to know about the application process for 2025:
Eligibility Criteria
SASSA grants are means-tested, meaning your income and assets will determine whether you qualify. For example, a single applicant must earn less than R8,070 per month to qualify for a grant.
What You’ll Need to Apply:
- A valid South African ID or birth certificate (if applying for a grant for children).
- Proof of address (no older than 3 months).
- Bank statements and income/asset documentation.
- Medical assessment (for Disability and Care Dependency grants).
Where to Apply:
Applications must be made in person at a SASSA office. As of now, there is no online application process for grants. After your application is submitted and verified, you will receive an SMS notification. The process can take up to 3 months.
What if Your Application is Rejected?
If your application is rejected, you have 90 days to appeal. You can call the SASSA toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11 for assistance with the appeals process.
Key Updates and Alerts
Budget Watch
In 2025, the South African government has set aside a substantial R284.7 billion for social grants, which will benefit more than 19 million South Africans.
Fraud Prevention
SASSA has partnered with the Department of Home Affairs to cross-check the data of grant recipients to ensure that grants are not paid out to deceased individuals.
SRD Grant Status
If you are a recipient of the SRD Grant, you can check the status of your application or payment updates through the SASSA website or the GovChat platform.
Stay Updated with SASSA
To avoid delays or disruptions in your grant payments, it’s essential to stay informed about any updates or changes. You can follow SASSA on WhatsApp or visit their official website for real-time updates.
For any questions or concerns, you can contact SASSA through the following methods:
- Call: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who qualifies for the SASSA grants?
- SASSA grants are means-tested, so eligibility is based on income and asset thresholds. A single applicant must earn less than R8,070 per month.
2. When do I need to replace my SASSA Gold Card?
- You must replace your gold card by May 31, 2025. After this date, the card will no longer work.
3. How do I apply for a SASSA grant?
- Applications must be made in person at a SASSA office with all required documents. There is no online application process.
4. How long does it take for my grant application to be processed?
- Processing your application typically takes up to 3 months.
5. What happens if my application is rejected?
- You have 90 days to appeal. You can contact the SASSA toll-free helpline for assistance with your appeal.
6. Where can I find more information?
- For more details, visit the official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za.
Conclusion: Preparing for Changes in 2025
With the SASSA Grant increases for 2025, South Africans can expect more financial relief to help them manage the increasing cost of living. However, beneficiaries must act quickly to replace their SASSA Gold Cards before the deadline of May 31, 2025 to avoid any disruptions in their payments.
Be sure to stay updated with the latest information, and make sure all your application and bank details are in order well before the payment dates. Staying prepared will ensure that you don’t face any delays or difficulties in accessing your grant payments.
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