In a much-anticipated announcement, SASSA has officially rolled out updated social grant payouts for mid-2025. With the cost of living continuing to climb and unemployment still a national challenge, these changes are a lifeline for millions of South Africans. Whether youโre a parent, pensioner, person with disabilities, or an unemployed individual, this guide breaks down the key grant updates, how much you can expect, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Overview
Hereโs a snapshot of the new grant structure confirmed for mid-2025:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Effective Date | April โ June 2025 |
Child Support Grant | R530/month (+R20); R750 with top-up |
Older Personโs Grant | R2,315 (60โ74); R2,335 (75+) |
Disability & Care Dependency | R2,315/month |
Foster Care Grant | R1,250/month (+R70) |
Grant-in-Aid | R560/month (+R30) |
SRD Grant (R350) | Expected to rise to R420โR500 |
Eligibility | Based on income, age, disability, and caregiver status |
Website | SASSA.gov.za |
These updates offer real financial relief and reflect efforts to adjust for inflation while expanding access to more vulnerable citizens.
Impact
This isnโt just about numbers. For over 19 million South Africans, these changes mean better meals, more stability, and access to basics like school supplies, electricity, or medical care. Social grants remain one of the most impactful ways to reduce poverty in South Africa, and these new amounts show government commitment to helping the most at-risk households.
Childcare
If you’re a parent, guardian, or foster caregiver, the Child Support Grant now provides R530 per child per month, with a top-up option bringing it to R750 for orphans. This boost helps families afford essentials like food, school items, and transport.
Tip: Apply for the top-up with proof of orphan status such as death certificates. It’s not automatic, so paperwork matters.
Pensioners
The Older Personโs Grant is now R2,315 for those aged 60 to 74, and R2,335 for people 75 and older. This small increase provides breathing room for elderly South Africans who often rely entirely on this grant to survive.
Example: Mr. Dlamini, a 76-year-old from Mpumalanga, uses this grant for groceries, prepaid electricity, and medication. Every rand counts when youโre on a fixed income.
Disability
Both Disability and Care Dependency Grants are now R2,315 per month. These grants are meant for individuals who are unable to work due to permanent physical or mental disability.
Eligibility:
- Ages 18โ59 for Disability Grant
- Medical assessment required
- Must pass income and asset test
Care Dependency Grants are for children under 18 with severe, long-term disabilities. Caregivers must prove full-time supervision is required.
Example: Nomsa in the Eastern Cape uses the grant to support her son who has cerebral palsy, helping pay for therapy and daily care.
Foster
Foster Care Grants are up to R1,250 per child per month. This grant supports foster families with the cost of raising children legally placed in their care.
Scenario: Ms. Nkosi in Johannesburg fosters two siblings and now receives R2,500 monthly. That goes toward school fees, food, and uniforms.
Aid
The Grant-in-Aid, now R560 per month, helps people who already receive another main grant but require a full-time caregiver. This amount is usually used to compensate a family member or hire part-time help.
You must:
- Already receive a main grant (pension, disability, or war veteranโs)
- Prove the need for full-time care
- Not live in a state institution
SRD
The SRD Grant, once the R350 relief grant, is expected to rise to between R420 and R500 by June 2025. Originally launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains crucial for unemployed citizens.
Key changes:
- Income threshold raised so more people can qualify
- In-person applications now accepted alongside online methods
- Income definition relaxed (gifts, once-off help wonโt count)
Legal Note: This follows a court order requiring SASSA to improve access for digitally excluded and low-income individuals.
Apply
- South African ID or refugee permit
- Proof of income or unemployment
- Birth certificate (for child-related grants)
- Medical report (for disability)
- Proof of residence (optional, but helpful)
Where to Apply:
- Online: SASSA services portal
- In-Person: Visit your nearest SASSA office early
How to Track:
- Use the online tracker
- Call 0800 60 10 11
- Keep your receipt and reference number safe
Whether you’re applying for the first time or checking your eligibility after these updates, the mid-2025 changes to SASSA grants offer meaningful support. These grants arenโt just monthly depositsโtheyโre bridges to dignity, stability, and opportunity.
FAQs
How much is the Child Support Grant now?
It’s R530 per month or R750 with a top-up.
What is the new SRD Grant amount?
It may rise to between R420 and R500 by June 2025.
Who qualifies for the Disability Grant?
People aged 18โ59 with a permanent disability.
How can I apply for SASSA grants?
Online at SASSA.gov.za or in person at a local office.
Is the Foster Care Grant increased?
Yes, it’s now R1,250 per child per month.