Beneficiaries of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) had something to look forward to in April 2025. In his rescheduled Budget Speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana made the announcement of new SASSA grant increases, a welcomed relief for millions who depend on government assistance. Let’s delve into what will change, what will increase, and what to do next, especially if you nevertheless possess a SASSA gold card.
Increase
This year’s increases are rather frivolous. Rather than the regular R10 to R90 hike, Treasury approved a 5,7% to 5,9% increase-above inflation, just like that. What then is the increase about-nothing other than shielding from two VAT increases in 2025. This is how the new grant amounts compare:
| Grant Type | Previous Amount | Increase | New Amount (April 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age (60–74 years) | R2,185 | R130 | R2,315 |
| Old Age (75+ years) | R2,200 | R135 | R2,335 |
| Disability Grant | R2,185 | R130 | R2,315 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,185 | R130 | R2,315 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,185 | R130 | R2,315 |
| Child Support Grant | R530 | R30 | R560 |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,180 | R70 | R1,250 |
All of the grants will be getting increases in April, but only some of them will be given another increase in October 2025. Unfortunately, Child Support and Foster Care grants will not see this second increase.
Payments
Well, if you are wondering when the cash will actually enter your account, these are the confirmed SASSA payment dates for April 2025:
- Older Persons Grant: Thursday, April 3
- Disability Grant: Friday, April 4
- Children’s Grants: Saturday, April 5 (Not Confirmed)
Just to note: SASSA usually shies away from banking on weekends; hence if the 5th of April is out of question, then payments may occur the 4th of April instead. So do stay tuned.
Cards
Now, about the SASSA gold card situation; this is important information. The last day to switch to the new Postbank Black Card was 20 March 2025. If you have not made the switch until now, the gold card is pretty useless. Here’s what actually will happen if you try to use it:
There will be no transaction or withdrawal.
- Retailers will reject the card.
- ATMs may eat up your card.
But don’t stress out. If you missed the deadlines, there’s a grace period. The card can still be exchanged until 30 June 2025 with Postbank.
Access
Even if your card was late in arriving, you could, however, go and collect your grant at:
- South African Postal Offices
- Retailer till points (only in April and May)
Are you in possession of your Postbank Black Card? This is fantastic to hear! You may withdraw cash from ATMs and at the following big retailers:
- Shoprite
- Usave
- Boxer
- Spar
- Pick n Pay
- Checkers
The only catch is that black card holders will NOT be assisted at post office branches, so ATMs or partner retailers are the go-to.
Queries
Got questions or need help? Contact here:
- Toll-Free Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11
- Head Office: 012 400 2322
- Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
The grant increases for 2025 are welcome in tough times, especially with increased costs of living. Whether in receipt of the old-age grant or child support, one ought to stay up-to-date and ensure the card is converted before June. Failure to do this may literally and financially plunge you into darkness.
FAQS:
How old-age grant is going to be in April 2025?
It will be R2,315 for the ages of 60–74 and R2,335 for the ages of 75 and above.
On which date in April 2025 SASSA will pay grants?
Starting from April 3: Older Persons (3rd), Disabilities (4th), Children (5th).
What happens to the SASSA gold cards that are valid until March 20?
It will be non-operational, no ATM or even store transactions are allowed.
Can I still change my SASSA gold card?
Yes, it can be exchanged until the end of June 2025 at Postbank branches.
Where can I withdraw my money under grant?
From ATMs and retailers such as Shoprite, Boxer, and Pick n Pay.