The morning queue at Athlone’s SASSA office wraps around the block as pensioners await answers about their March 2025 grant payments. With autumn’s chill in the air, many have been waiting since dawn, determined to confirm their payment dates and amounts.
The confusion isn’t surprising—recent changes to the payment schedule and an increase in grant amounts have left many beneficiaries seeking clarity.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the March 2025 SASSA old age grant payments, including key dates, amounts, collection strategies, and official updates.
Payment Dates
SASSA continues to use a staggered payment system to ease congestion at collection points. Old age grant recipients will receive their funds on Monday, 4 March 2025.
Whether you collect your grant at a pay point, use a SASSA card at a retailer, or have it deposited into your bank account, this is the date the money becomes available.
Here’s the full payment schedule for March 2025:
| Grant Type | Payment Date | Day of Week |
|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grants | 4 March 2025 | Monday |
| Disability Grants | 5 March 2025 | Tuesday |
| Children’s Grants | 6 March 2025 | Wednesday |
Once deposited, the funds remain available, so there’s no need to rush to withdraw immediately. Avoiding peak collection times can make the process smoother and faster.
Collection Strategies
Queues at payment points can be long, especially on the first day. Some pensioners, like Victor Mokoena from Khayelitsha, have found ways to avoid the rush.
“I wait two or three days before collecting my grant,” he shares. “The queues are shorter, and sometimes taxi fares are cheaper.”
SASSA confirms that foot traffic at collection points drops by nearly 40% after the first three days. Beneficiaries with mobility challenges or health concerns may find it beneficial to withdraw their money later in the week.
Grant Amounts
In February’s budget speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced an increase in old age grants. As of April 2024, the standard amounts are:
| Grant Type | Age Bracket | Monthly Amount | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Pension | 60-74 years | R2,190 | 4.8% |
| Old Age Pension | 75+ years | R2,210 | 4.8% |
| Old Age with Disability | Any qualifying age | R2,190 + R2,190 | 4.8% |
This increase slightly outpaces inflation (4.6%) but remains modest. Pensioners like Elizabeth Nkosi, who supports her grandchildren, appreciate every extra rand:
“It’s not enough, but it helps,” she says. “Every cent counts when buying school shoes and maize meal.”
For March 2025, recipients will receive the standard grant amount with no additional festive or emergency top-ups.
Payment Methods
SASSA continues to encourage electronic payments, with 83% of pensioners now receiving their grants via the SASSA card or direct bank deposit.
- SASSA Card: No monthly fees, free withdrawals at major retailers (Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Boxer, and Spar), and PIN-based purchases. ATM withdrawals, however, incur standard banking fees.
- Bank Account: Direct deposit for those preferring flexibility, though banking fees may apply depending on the account type.
“The SASSA card is still the best option for most pensioners,” says regional coordinator Themba Matlou. “It’s free, secure, and doesn’t require a minimum balance.”
Common Concerns
SASSA releases funds on the previous working day in such cases. However, for March 2025, the 4th falls on a Tuesday, so payments proceed as scheduled.
Grant on behalf of a pensioner?
Yes, but only if officially registered as a procurator. This requires a formal application at a SASSA office with both the recipient and the designated collector present.
What documents are needed?
At pay points, you need your SASSA card and a valid South African ID. If withdrawing at a retailer or ATM, only the SASSA card and PIN are required.
Payment doesn’t appear?
Delays are rare but can happen. Wait 24 hours before reporting a missing payment to SASSA via the toll-free helpline (0800 60 10 11) or by visiting a local office.
Payment Dates
For those planning ahead, here are the next anticipated old age grant payment dates:
| Month | Payment Date | Day of Week |
|---|---|---|
| April 2025 | 3 April 2025 | Thursday |
| May 2025 | 5 May 2025 | Monday |
| June 2025 | 4 June 2025 | Wednesday |
SASSA typically follows this schedule, ensuring stability for pensioners managing their household budgets.
Gold Card Replacement
SASSA has begun replacing its Gold Cards with improved security features. The rollout is happening in phases based on birth months:
| Birth Month | Replacement Period |
|---|---|
| Jan-March | Jan-April 2025 |
| April-June | May-August 2025 |
| July-Sept | Sept-Dec 2025 |
| Oct-Dec | Jan-March 2026 |
Recipients will receive an SMS notification when it’s their turn. The process is free, and pensioners must visit a designated SASSA office with a valid ID to collect their new card.
Staying Informed
For official updates, pensioners should rely on these SASSA communication channels:
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 60 10 11 (Weekdays 8:00-16:00)
- Facebook: South African Social Security Agency (verified page)
- Regional Offices: In all major cities
Avoid misinformation spread via unverified WhatsApp messages or social media.
As March 4th approaches, pensioners like Elizabeth remain steadfast in their reliance on the SASSA grant.
“This money gives me dignity,” she says. “I raised my children, I worked hard, and now I can still put food on the table for my grandchildren.”
For South Africa’s elderly, the grant is more than just financial aid—it’s stability in uncertain times.
FAQs
When is the March 2025 old age grant payment date?
SASSA will pay the old age grant on Monday, 4 March 2025.
How much is the old age grant in March 2025?
R2,190 for ages 60-74 and R2,210 for ages 75+.
Can I collect my SASSA grant later than the payment date?
Yes, funds remain available indefinitely after deposit.
Where can I withdraw my SASSA grant for free?
Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Boxer, Spar, and SASSA pay points.
How do I register someone to collect my grant?
Apply at a SASSA office with the designated person and your ID.
