SASSA Older Persons Grant: Full Guide for 2025–2026

The South African government supports older citizens through the Older Persons Grant, managed by SASSA (South African Social Security Agency). This grant helps elderly people meet basic needs, such as food, transport, and medication. Many older South Africans rely on this support to survive and live with dignity.

In 2025, the grant pays R2,180 per month. If the applicant is over 75 years old, they get R2,200 per month. Payments are made once a month on fixed dates. This guide covers everything you need to know, including payment dates, who qualifies, how to apply, and important rules.

Who Can Get the Older Persons Grant?

To get the SASSA Older Persons Grant, you must meet these conditions:

• You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
• Men must be 65 years or older.
• Women must be 60 years or older.
• You must live in South Africa.
• You must not get care from a state institution (like a government old-age home).
• You must pass the means test.

Age Requirement

The age requirement is different for men and women:

• Men qualify at 65 years old.
• Women qualify at 60 years old.

You must bring proof of your age when you apply, like your ID book.

Means Test

SASSA uses a means test to check if you qualify financially. This test looks at how much you earn and what assets you own.

For 2025, these are the limits:

• Single person: Less than R8,070 per month in income, and assets below R1,372,800.
• Married couple: Combined income below R16,140 per month, and assets below R2,745,600.

If you earn more or have more assets, you will not qualify.

Payment Amount for 2025–2026

SASSA pays R2,180 per month to people under 75 years old. If you are 75 or older, you get R2,200 per month.

Payment Dates for 2025 and 2026

Older Persons Grant payments are made monthly. SASSA gives fixed dates for each month. Payments are available from these dates at ATMs, stores, and Postbank cards.

2025 Payment Dates

2026 Payment Dates (Early Schedule)

How to Apply for the Older Persons Grant

SASSA does not allow online applications for this grant. You must go to a SASSA office in person. Bring all required documents to avoid delays.

Documents You Need

• South African ID book or smart card.
• Proof of marital status (marriage certificate if married).
• Proof of income (bank statement or payslip).
• Proof of residence (municipal bill or letter).
• Proof of assets (property documents, car papers).
• Letter of authority if applying for someone else.

If you are too sick or too old to go, someone can apply on your behalf. They must bring a doctor’s letter to explain why you cannot go yourself.

What Happens After You Apply?

1. You get a receipt as proof of application.
2. SASSA checks your information.
3. It may take up to 3 months to approve your application.
4. If approved, payments start from the date you applied.

If your application is rejected, SASSA gives a reason. You can appeal within 90 days.

How to Collect Your Money

Once approved, you can collect your grant in these ways:

• SASSA card – Use at ATMs or retail stores.
• Postbank account – Linked with the SASSA card.
• Cash pay points – For rural areas only.

SASSA recommends using the gold SASSA card. It is safe and has no monthly fees.

Grant Reviews and Life Certificates

SASSA checks your grant every year. This is called a grant review. You must also give a life certificate once a year. This proves you are still alive and receiving the grant.

If you do not give your life certificate, your grant may stop. You can do this at a SASSA office or some banks.

Which reasons can result in your grant being stopped?

SASSA can cancel your grant if:

• You die.
• You move out of South Africa.
• You go into a state institution.
• Your income or assets increase.
• You don’t provide a life certificate or updated documents.

Always tell SASSA if your situation changes.

Can You Reapply If Cancelled?

Yes. If your grant stops, you can apply again. You must meet all the requirements. Sometimes SASSA will ask for extra proof.

How to Contact SASSA

• Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.sassa.gov.za

Final Thoughts

The SASSA Older Persons Grant is a vital support for many elderly people in South Africa. It helps cover basic living costs and brings dignity in old age. Make sure you apply at the right time, bring the correct documents, and follow the rules.

Always keep track of the monthly payment dates and submit your life certificate to keep getting the grant.

If you or someone you know qualifies, apply now. The support is worth it.