SASSA in 2025 proclaimed a dual-phase hike in social grant rates, to be implemented progressively, to assist the beneficiaries in coping with the increased cost of living. The primary hike mainly occurred in April and then a minor increase was made in October. The extra disbursements are an activity of the government trying to align inflation with the social support and basic living costs. Consequently, the monthly grants of many categories have been increased. For example, the amounts of grant from October 2025 are Old Age Grant (60–74 years old) — R2,320; 75 and above — R2,340; Disability and Care-Dependency Grants — R2,320; War Veterans Grant — R2,340. The amount for Foster-Care Grants is now R1,250; for Child Support Grants, it is R560; and other associated top-ups or aid grants are still as per the updated schedule.
Who Qualifies: Eligibility Criteria Unchanged
With the increment, SASSA’s eligibility criteria have not altered — applicants must fulfill the standard conditions if they are to keep getting the grants. This entails the age limit (Old Age Grant), and the documentation of disability/medical assessment (Disability or Care-Dependency Grants). The families receiving Child Support or Foster-Care grants have to pass income or asset-means tests, besides keeping valid documentation for the child(ren) the grants are concerned with. For the already existing grant receivers who are still qualifying, the enhanced amounts will be credited automatically no new application is usually needed.
Why the Increase Matters — Coping with Inflation and Rising Costs
The two-part increment (April and October) is aimed at maintaining grants in line with the inflation rate and the cost of mainstays such as food, transport, and healthcare. Through these periodic adjustments in payment amounts, SASSA guarantees that social support continues to be relevant and that it assists the needy in coping with their increasing expenses.
In a large number of households, these subsidies are the main source of monthly income — hence, a little increase could still make a difference in budgeting for utilities, groceries, schooling, or medical needs. The incremental increases are a means of making the coping with limited budgets slightly easier.
What Beneficiaries Should Do: Check Status & Keep Documents Updated
Beneficiaries must check through official channels (like SASSA’s status-check portals or local offices) their payment amounts to verify that the revised grants have been implemented. Where the grant amount has not altered although eligibility requirements are met, it may be necessary to follow up with SASSA.
Recipients primarily relying on Child Support, Foster Care, or Care-Dependency Grants must see to it that all pertinent documents (proof of income, child’s birth certificate, or medical/disability reports) are current. This will help to prevent any delays or interruptions in the payment of the new amounts.
Also Read: SASSA Holiday Payments 2025: New Festive Season Grant Timetable Announced
