The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) operates a vital financial support scheme for older citizens known as the Older Person’s Grant. The grant assists seniors in acquiring their basic needs, including food, health care and other day-to-day expenses.
If you are eligible for this scheme, you should know what its eligibility conditions, payment date and application procedure are so that you receive this support without any break.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to get this grant, the following conditions must be met by the applicant:
- Age: The applicant should be of 60 years and above.
- Citizenship: The candidate has to be a South African citizen, permanent resident or recognized refugee.
- Income and asset thresholds: Candidates must undergo a Means Test, which determines the degree of their income and assets.
- Place of residence: Candidates may not live in a state-funded institution.
Means Test Thresholds
SASSA assesses candidates’ financial status based on the following criteria:
Income thresholds:
- Unmarried candidates: Monthly income should not exceed R7,190.
- Married applicants: Spouses’ joint monthly income should not be more than R14,380.
Asset thresholds:
- Unmarried applicants: Combined assets should not be more than R1,372,800.
- Married applicants: Spouses’ combined assets should not be more than R2,745,600.
Grant Amounts – 2025
From April 2025, the grant amounts will be the following:
- For 60 to 74 years: R2,090 per month
- For 75 years and older: R2,110 per month
Note: SASSA tends to revise these amounts in April and October on the basis of inflation and the economy.
Payment Schedule 2025
SASSA makes the payment of the Older Persons Grant on the first working date of a month.
Month | Payment Date |
---|---|
January | January 3 |
February | February 2 |
March | March 4 |
April | April 2 |
May | May 2 |
June | June 3 |
Month | Payment Date |
July | 2 July |
August | 2 August |
September | 3 September |
October | 2 October |
November | 4 November |
December | 3 December |
Note: Payment dates might vary because of public holidays or banking delays. Check SASSA’s official website for updates.
Application Process
Use the following procedure to apply for the Older Persons Grant:
- Go to the closest SASSA office and apply in person.
- Provide the necessary documents, including:
- Valid South African Identity Document or Recognised Refugee Permit
- Birth Certificate (as proof of age)
- Proof of Income and Assets
- Proof of Residence (utility bill)
- A SASSA representative will help you complete the application form.
- Collect the Application Acknowledgement, which will confirm that your application has been received.
- Processing Time is typically between 30 to 90 days.
Payment Methods
SASSA provides different payment methods for the Older Persons Grant:
- Bank Deposit: Money will be paid directly into your bank account.
- SASSA Payment Card: The card can be used at retail outlets and ATMs.
- Cash Payment Centre: Cash can be withdrawn from specific points on specific dates.
How to Check Grant Status?

If you would like to inquire about the status of your grant or payment of your application, use the below methods:
- Online: Go to SASSA’s official website and input your ID number.
- By telephone: Call the toll-free number 0800 60 10 11.
- By WhatsApp: Send “Status” to 082 046 8553.
What if payment is stopped or delayed?
If your grant is delayed or stopped, follow the below steps:
- Verify banking details: Ensure that your banking details are accurate.
- Call SASSA: Contact the official helpline to confirm the status of the payment.
- Inform personal information changes: If your personal or financial circumstances have changed, inform SASSA.
Conclusion
SASSA’s Older Persons Grant is a valuable financial assistance programme for South Africa’s elderly citizens. This way, they receive a regular income to cover their day-to-day needs.
If you are eligible for this grant, keep the documents that are required ready and apply immediately. Also, be sure to update the payment schedule and your personal details so that there will be no kind of issue.
FAQs
Q1. Who is eligible for the SASSA Older Person’s Grant?
To qualify, applicants must be 60 years or older, a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognized refugee, and must pass a means test assessing income and assets.
Q2. How much is the grant amount in 2025?
Ages 60 to 74: R2,090 per month
Ages 75 and above: R2,110 per month
Q3. When will the grant payments be made in 2025?
Payments are made on the first working day of each month. For example, January 3rd, February 2nd, and March 4th.
Q4. How can I check my grant status?
You can check your status:
Online: Through the SASSA official website
Phone: Call 0800 60 10 11
WhatsApp: Send “Status” to 082 046 8553
Q5 What should I do if my payment is delayed or stopped?
Check if your banking details are correct
Contact SASSA through their helpline
Update your personal or financial information if needed.