As of June 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has implemented updates to the pension grant system to enhance efficiency and ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current eligibility criteria, application process, and important considerations for beneficiaries.
Eligibility Criteria for the SASSA Older Person’s Grant
To qualify for the SASSA Older Person’s Grant, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: 60 years or older.
- Residency: South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee residing in South Africa.
- Means Test:
- Income:
- Single: Annual income not exceeding R86,280.
- Married: Combined annual income not exceeding R172,560.
- Assets:
- Single: Assets not exceeding R1,227,600.
- Married: Combined assets not exceeding R2,455,200.
- Income:
- Other Grants: Not receiving any other social grant.
- Institutional Care: Not being cared for in a state institution.
Note: If admitted to a state-funded institution, the grant is reduced to 25% of the maximum amount from the fourth month of admission and reinstated upon discharge.
Grant Amounts
- Aged 60 to 74: R2,310 per month.
- Aged 75 and older: R2,330 per month.
These amounts are subject to periodic reviews and adjustments.
Application Process
- Visit: Nearest SASSA office.
- Documents Required:
- 13-digit bar-coded South African ID.
- Proof of marital status (if applicable).
- Proof of residence.
- Proof of income and assets.
- Bank statements (not older than 3 months).
- Application Form: Complete in the presence of a SASSA officer.
If unable to apply in person, a trusted individual may apply on your behalf with a letter of permission and a doctor’s note.
Payment Methods
- Bank Deposit: Directly into the beneficiary’s bank account.
- SASSA Card: Withdraw funds at ATMs or retail outlets.
- Cash Payment: At designated pay points.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to opt for bank deposits to ensure timely and secure payments.
Grant Suspension and Lapse Conditions
- Suspension Reasons:
- Change in financial circumstances.
- Outcome of a grant review.
- Failure to cooperate during a review.
- Fraud or misrepresentation.
- Approval errors.
- Lapse Conditions:
- Death of the beneficiary.
- Admission to a state institution.
- Failure to claim for three consecutive months.
- Absence from the country.
Regular reviews may be conducted to ensure continued eligibility. Beneficiaries will be notified in advance.
Avoiding Misinformation
SASSA has cautioned beneficiaries against false information circulating on social media regarding new rules or double payments. Beneficiaries are advised to rely solely on official SASSA communication channels for accurate updates.
Contact Information
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Social Media:
- Facebook: SASSA News
- X (formerly Twitter): @OfficialSASSA
- TikTok: @officialsassanews
- WhatsApp: SASSA_Official
- YouTube: South African Social Security Agency
- Instagram: sassa10_za
Stay informed by following SASSA’s official channels to receive timely and accurate information.
For a detailed overview of the recent changes and updates to the SASSA pension grant system, you may refer to the following video: