This is good news for all South African citizens who receive government assistance from SASSA (South African Social Security Agency). The government has announced an increase in SASSA grants from April 2025. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana made this announcement in his budget speech, which will provide relief to millions of people. Let’s know how much has increased this year, what are the payment dates and what is important information related to SASSA Gold Card.
SASSA Grant Increase – 2025
This year the grants have been increased more than before. Usually the grants used to increase from R10 to R90, but this time the government has given an increase from 5.7% to 5.9% to compensate for inflation and two VAT (value added tax) increases. Let’s see how much the new payments will be now:
| 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 |
Note that the old age, disability and war veterans grants will be increased in April as well as October, but the child care and orphanage grants will not get a second increase.
SASSA Payment Dates – April 2025
If you want to know when the money will come into your bank account, the government has set the dates:
- Old Age Grant: 3 April 2025 (Thursday)
- Disability Grant: 4 April 2025 (Friday)
- Child Support and Other Grants: 5 April 2025 (Saturday)
Important information: SASSA usually does not make payments on Saturdays and Sundays, so it is possible that the April 5 date may be changed and the money will be received on April 4. So stay alert for updates.
SASSA Gold Card – Important Changes
Now a big news regarding the SASSA Gold Card! The government has asked all beneficiaries to shift to the Postbank Black Card by March 20, 2025. If you have not changed your card by now, your gold card will no longer work.
If you try to withdraw money from a gold card, then:
- Your card may get stuck in the ATM machine.
- Shopkeepers will not accept your card.
- You will not be able to withdraw your money.
But don’t worry! The government has allowed you to replace the gold card with a black card until June 2025. So go to the nearest Postbank branch and get a new card as soon as possible.
How to withdraw your SASSA grant money?
If you have a new Postbank Black Card, you can easily withdraw money.
Withdraw money in these ways:
ATM withdrawal – from any bank ATM
Withdrawal from the following shops:
Shoprite
- Usave
- Boxer
- Spar
- Pick n Pay
- Checkers
People with a Postbank Black Card cannot withdraw money from the post office! You must use an ATM or the shops mentioned above.
SASSA Helpline – Contact for support
If you have any problems or need more information, contact these numbers:
- Toll-free call centre: 0800 60 10 11
- Head Office: 012 400 2322
- Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
Conclusion
While the SASSA grant has certainly increased in 2025, this relief may be limited given the rising cost of living. If you receive the old age, disability or child support grant, it’s important to keep up with your new payments and replace your card in time. If you haven’t yet replaced your SASSA gold card with a black card, hurry—or you could be in trouble!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How much will the old age grant be in April 2025?
R2,315 for those aged 60-74 and R2,335 for those above 75.
When will the SASSA grants be paid?
Old Age Grant from 3 April, Disability Grant from 4 April and Child Support Grant on 5 April (dates may change).
What if I still have my SASSA Gold Card?
It won’t work. Replace it with a Postbank Black Card immediately.
Can I still replace my SASSA Gold Card?
Yes, the government has given you until June 2025 to replace it.
Where can I withdraw my SASSA money?
From an ATM or from shops like Shoprite, Boxer, Pick n Pay, Checkers. Withdrawals from the Post Office are not allowed!