SASSA Old Age Grant Increase 2025:As South Africa continues to contend with rising costs of living, the SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) Old Age Grant remains a critical safety net for many senior citizens. In 2025, changes to the grant particularly in eligibility, biometric registration, and payment adjustments have significant implications for current and prospective beneficiaries.
This article provides a comprehensive, up-to-date guide on what to expect: who qualifies, how much the grant will be, when payments will be made, and how to apply. Whether you are a senior citizen, a caregiver, or simply seeking clarity on social assistance policy, this breakdown will help you stay informed and prepared.
SASSA Old Age Grant Increase 2025-Overview
| Article on | SASSA Old Age Grant Increase 2025: Check Eligibility, New Amount & Payment Dates |
| Grant Amount | R2,310 (Age 60–74) • R2,330 (Age 75+) |
| Payment Start Date | April 2025 |
| Eligibility Age | 60 years and above |
| Income Limit | R96,840/year (Single) • R193,680/year (Married) |
| New Requirement | Mandatory Biometric Registration from October 2025 |
What Is the SASSA Old Age Grant?
The SASSA Old Age Grant is a monthly social assistance benefit provided by the South African government to eligible older adults who need financial support to meet basic needs such as food, utilities, and healthcare. It is means-tested and intended for citizens, permanent residents, or qualifying refugees with limited or no income or assets.
What’s New in 2025?
1. Biometric Registration Is Mandatory
Beginning 1 October 2025, all new applicants as well as existing recipients undergoing review must register biometric information (fingerprints and other biometric data) at SASSA offices. This measure aims to reduce fraud and ensure that only eligible individuals can receive the benefit.
2. Grant Increase & Adjustment
While the SASSA article refers to “increase,” the actual update in 2025 is relatively modest:
- For beneficiaries aged 60 to 74, the grant remains R2,310 (i.e. effectively no change)
- For beneficiaries aged 75 and above, the grant remains R2,330
The article mentions these as “old amount” vs “new amount,” indicating an increase of R130, though elsewhere it states that the payment amounts remain constant. The nuance suggests the increase might be symbolic, or only applied in certain cycles.
Eligibility: Who Qualifies?
To receive the SASSA Old Age Grant in 2025, you must satisfy several criteria:
“The SASSA Old Age Grant isn’t just financial support — it’s dignity, stability, and hope for South Africa’s seniors.”
- Age requirement
You must be at least 60 years old. - Citizenship / legal residence
You must be a South African citizen, a permanent resident, or a refugee legally permitted in the country. - Means test
- Additional documentation and verification
Applicants need valid identification (13-digit South African ID), proof of residence, banking or payment account details, proof of income or assets, and other supporting documents. - Ongoing compliance
SASSA may periodically review your eligibility (income/asset status, living circumstances). If you’re requested to revalidate your status (or register biometrics), failure to comply could affect grant payments.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
If you or someone in your family qualifies or wishes to apply, here’s the process:
- Check eligibility
Confirm that you meet age, residency, and means test requirements. - Collect all required documents
- South African ID (13-digit)
- Proof of residence
- Bank account or pay point details
- Proof of income, assets, or pensions
- Medical or supporting documentation if applicable
- Visit your nearest SASSA office or use the official online channels
Complete the official application form, attaching the required documents. For new applicants as of October 2025, the biometric data must be captured at the SASSA office. - Submit your application & get acknowledgement
After submission, you will receive a receipt or acknowledgment (often with a reference number). Processing can take up to 90 days. - Wait for approval
SASSA will review your application. If approved, you’ll become a beneficiary and receive payments monthly. - Receive payments
Once your grant is approved, funds are disbursed via direct deposit to a bank account, or you can collect them at designated retail points (such as Shoprite, Boxer, Checkers), or via Postbank cards.
Payment Dates & Disbursement
- The increased grant amounts are expected to be paid starting from April 2025 for eligible recipients.
- Payments are monthly.
- Beneficiaries do not need to reapply solely for the increase if you are already receiving the grant and remain eligible, the increase will (in principle) be applied automatically.
- Beneficiaries must ensure their banking or collection details are up to date so the funds can be received without disruption.
FAQs for SASSA Old Age Grant Increase 2025
What is the new SASSA Old Age Grant amount for 2025?
For ages 60–74, it’s R2,310; for 75+, it’s R2,330 per month.
When will the new grant amount be paid?
The updated payments start from April 2025.
Who qualifies for the Old Age Grant?
South African citizens or permanent residents aged 60+ who meet the means test requirements.
What is the income limit for eligibility?
Single applicants: R96,840/year; Married couples: R193,680/year.
Do I need to reapply for the increase?
No. Existing beneficiaries will automatically receive the updated amount.
