SASSA War Veterans Grant – Full Guide (2025)

The War Veterans Grant is a monthly social grant offered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). It is a special grant for people who fought in specific historic wars. If you served in World War II (1939–1945) or the Korean War (1950–1953), you may qualify for this grant.

This article explains everything about the grant, including eligibility, application process, payment dates, and important rules. It is written in simple English and gives you complete, accurate, and helpful information.

What is the SASSA War Veterans Grant?

The War Veterans Grant is a government grant for military veterans of World War II or the Korean War. It is also known as a Military Veterans Pension. The South African government gives this grant as a thank you and support for old war veterans who now need financial help.

This grant is not for all military veterans. It is only for those who served in the two wars mentioned above. Also, you must live in South Africa and meet other conditions, which we will explain below.

Who Can Apply for the War Veterans Grant?

You can apply for the SASSA War Veterans Grant if you meet all of the following requirements:

• Age Requirement: You must be 60 years or older, or you must be disabled and unable to work.
• War Service Requirement: You must have served in either:
  • World War II (1939–1945)
  • Korean War (1950–1953)
• Residency Status: You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee living in South Africa.
• Living in South Africa: You must live full-time in South Africa.
• Financial Means Test: You must pass the means test (explained below).
• No Other Government Support: You must not receive any other social grant.

How Much is the War Veterans Grant in 2025?

As of June 2025, the amount of the War Veterans Grant is R2,200 per month.

This amount is slightly more than the Older Persons Grant or Disability Grant. It helps war veterans with basic needs such as food, rent, and transport.

What is the Means Test?

The means test checks if you qualify based on your income and assets. This helps SASSA give grants only to people who truly need them.

Income Limit:

• If you are single, you must earn less than R96,840 per year (R8,070 per month).
• If you are married, your combined income must be less than R193,680 per year (R16,140 per month).

Asset Limit:

• If you are single, your total assets must be less than R1,372,800.
• If you are married, your combined assets must be less than R2,745,600.

Assets include property (except the house you live in), cars, money in the bank, or shares.

Required Documents for Application

To apply for the War Veterans Grant, you need to submit certain documents:

• South African ID or refugee permit
• Proof of war service (military records, discharge papers)
• Proof of income (bank statements, pension slips)
• Proof of assets (property, investments)
• Medical report (if disabled)
• Proof of residence (like utility bill)
• Marriage certificate (if married)
• Bank details (for direct payment)

How to Apply for the War Veterans Grant

You must apply in person at your nearest SASSA office. The application is not available online.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit a SASSA office and ask for the War Veterans Grant application form.
2. Get help from a SASSA official if needed.
3. Submit your documents along with the application form.
4. Receive a stamped receipt for your application.
5. Wait up to 3 months for SASSA to process your application.
6. Receive written approval or rejection by SMS or letter.

If approved, your grant starts from the application date and includes back pay.

Grant Payment Methods

You can choose how to receive your grant:

• Direct deposit into your bank or Postbank account
• Cash collection at a SASSA pay point
• SASSA Gold Card (usable at ATMs and retail stores)

2025 War Veterans Grant Payment Dates

What If You Can’t Visit a SASSA Office?

If you are old or sick, someone can apply on your behalf. You must:

• Give them a written permission letter
• Provide a doctor’s note explaining your condition

SASSA may also send a staff member to your home in special cases.

What Happens If Your Situation Changes?

You must inform SASSA if anything changes, including:

• Getting a new job or extra income
• Moving to another country
• Receiving another grant
• Entering a care facility or prison

If you don’t report these changes, SASSA may cancel your grant or ask for repayment.

Grant Review and Cancellation

SASSA checks your eligibility regularly. They may ask for documents to confirm your situation.

Your grant can be stopped if you:

• No longer qualify
• Move out of the country
• Pass away
• Stay in a government institution for more than 4 months

How to Appeal a Rejected Application

If SASSA rejects your application, you can appeal:

1. Visit your local SASSA office and request a review.
2. Write an appeal letter to the Department of Social Development within 90 days.
3. Include your ID number, reason for appeal, and any documents to support your case.

Important Tips for Applicants

• Apply as soon as you qualify
• Keep copies of all documents
• Stay updated with SASSA news
• Use official sources to check your status

Final Words

The War Veterans Grant is a way for South Africa to honour its military heroes. If you served in World War II or the Korean War, this grant may help support your daily needs. Visit your local SASSA office to apply and make sure you follow all the rules. This grant can offer dignity and financial support to those who served the nation in difficult times.

For more help, contact SASSA or visit the official website: www.sassa.gov.za.