If you’re a South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipient or thinking about applying for one, there’s some important news you need to hear. With fresh grant increases, updated payment dates for May 2025, and key deadlines around the corner, now’s the time to stay informed and take action.
Whether you receive a pension, care for someone, support a child, or live with a disability, knowing how much you’ll get and when you’ll get it helps you plan your life better. Let’s unpack what’s changing and how it affects you.
Increases
Starting in May 2025, SASSA will increase the monthly amounts for all major social grants. These changes are part of the government’s plan to help low-income households cope with rising costs, especially with inflation continuing to hit hard.
Here’s a breakdown of the new grant values:
Grant Type | New Monthly Amount |
---|---|
Older Persons Grant | R2,315 (60–74 yrs) |
Older Persons (75+) | 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 |
These increases will be followed by another adjustment in October 2025, depending on how the mid-year budget looks.
Dates
Since May 5 lands on a weekend, the payment dates for this month are slightly adjusted. Here’s the revised schedule:
Grant Category | Payment Date |
---|---|
Older Persons Grant | May 2, 2025 (Wed) |
Disability Grant | May 3, 2025 (Thu) |
Child-Related Grants | May 4, 2025 (Fri) |
You can access your grant payments through SASSA/Postbank cards at ATMs, direct bank deposits, or partner retail stores like Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, and Pick n Pay. Always check your SMS notifications or SASSA’s website before going to collect.
System
SASSA distributes several different grants depending on age, health status, and caregiving responsibilities. Here’s a quick look at who qualifies for what:
- Old Age Grant: For those 60+ years
- Disability Grant: For those medically unfit to work
- War Veterans Grant: For ex-servicemen over 60
- Care Dependency Grant: For caregivers of severely disabled children
- Foster Care Grant: For legal foster parents
- Child Support Grant: For primary caregivers of kids under 18
These grants help with essential needs like food, education, healthcare, and transport—things many families would otherwise struggle to afford.
Cards
Big news if you’re still using the old SASSA gold card—these are being phased out. The deadline to switch to the new black Postbank SASSA card is May 20, 2025.
Why the switch? It’s all about better security, fraud protection, and smoother service at more locations.
If you miss the deadline:
- You can still collect May payments at Post Offices (with your ID)
- Withdraw at major retail stores
- Swap your card at Postbank offices until June 30, 2025
Avoid delays—do the card swap early.
Apply
Not on a grant yet? Here’s how to apply:
Step 1: Check eligibility
Go to www.sassa.gov.za and confirm you meet the criteria (residency, income limits, and so on).
Step 2: Gather documents
You’ll need:
- SA ID or child’s birth certificate
- Proof of address (bill or affidavit)
- Proof of income (bank statements, payslips)
- Medical report (if needed)
Step 3: Apply online or in person
Use the SASSA online portal or go to your nearest office.
Step 4: Wait for verification
Your application might include interviews or home visits. Processing can take 2–6 weeks.
Step 5: Start receiving payments
Once approved, your payments start monthly via bank or card. SASSA will also keep you updated by SMS.
Staying updated on SASSA’s changes ensures that you get the support you need on time. These grants provide more than money—they offer stability, dignity, and hope. So, whether you’re already receiving a grant or planning to apply, take note of these key updates and make sure you’re ready for what’s ahead.
FAQs
When will SASSA grants be paid in May?
Older: May 2, Disability: May 3, Children: May 4
How much is the Child Support Grant now?
It has increased to R560 per month.
What happens if I miss the gold card deadline?
You can collect at the Post Office or retail stores.
Can I apply for a SASSA grant online?
Yes, via the SASSA online services portal.
Why are SASSA grants increasing?
To help recipients cope with inflation.