While rumors have circulated that SASSA grants doubled in 2025, this is not the case. However, there have been incremental increases to help beneficiaries cope with rising living costs. This guide breaks down the latest updates, including grant increases, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
SASSA Grant Increases
| Grant Type | January 2025 Increase | February 2025 Increase | New Total (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | R90 | R10 | R2,190 (ages 60-74), R2,210 (75+) |
| Disability Grant | R90 | R10 | R2,190 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R90 | R10 | R2,190 |
| War Veterans Grant | R90 | R10 | R2,210 |
| Foster Child Grant | R50 | N/A | R1,180 |
| Child Support Grant | R20 | N/A | R530 |
| Social Relief of Distress (SRD) | R20 | N/A | R370 |
These increases may not be as dramatic as the rumored doubling, but they aim to ease the financial strain faced by millions of South Africans.
Types of SASSA Grants
SASSA offers various grants tailored to specific needs:
- Older Persons Grant:
- For individuals aged 60 or older with limited income.
- Disability Grant:
- For individuals unable to work due to a permanent disability.
- Care Dependency Grant:
- For caregivers of children with severe disabilities.
- Foster Child Grant:
- For children placed in foster care.
- Child Support Grant:
- For families earning below a specific income threshold.
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD):
- Temporary assistance for those experiencing emergencies or unemployment.
Detailed Breakdown of Increases
- January 2025: Increased by R90.
- February 2025: Additional R10 increase.
- New Total:
- Ages 60–74: R2,190.
- Ages 75+: R2,210.
This grant assists with expenses like groceries, healthcare, and transportation.
Care Dependency Grants
Both grants received identical increases:
- January 2025: R90 increase.
- February 2025: R10 increase.
- New Total: R2,190 per month.
These grants help cover daily living expenses and medical costs for individuals with permanent disabilities or caregivers of children with severe disabilities.
Foster Child Grant
- Increase: R50 in January 2025.
- New Total: R1,180 per month.
This grant supports foster families with expenses like school fees and clothing.
Child Support Grant
- Increase: R20 in January 2025.
- New Total: R530 per child per month.
This grant is essential for low-income families to meet basic needs.
Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
- Increase: R20 in January 2025.
- New Total: R370 per month.
The SRD grant offers short-term financial aid to those in urgent need.
How to Apply
Each grant has specific criteria. Visit the SASSA website or contact a local office to confirm eligibility.
Prepare Your Documents
| Required Documents | Details |
|---|---|
| ID | South African ID or birth certificate. |
| Proof of Income | Bank statements, employer letters, or affidavits. |
| Medical Report (if needed) | For disability or care dependency grants. |
| Foster Care Documents | Court order for foster child grants. |
Submit Your Application
- Online: Use the SASSA e-services portal.
- In-Person: Visit your nearest SASSA office.
Track Your Application
- Check your status online or call 0800 60 10 11.
Practical Tips
- Update Your Information
- Ensure SASSA has accurate personal and banking details to avoid delays.
- Budget Wisely
- Use grants strategically to cover essential needs like food, utilities, and healthcare.
- Stay Informed
- Regularly check the SASSA website for updates on payment schedules and policy changes.
FAQs
Have SASSA grants doubled in 2025?
No, but incremental increases have been implemented across all grant types.
What is the new amount for the Older Persons Grant in 2025?
The Older Persons Grant is R2,190 for ages 60–74 and R2,210 for ages 75+.
When did the 2025 SASSA increases take effect?
Increases were implemented in January and February 2025.
How do I apply for a SASSA grant?
Apply online via the SASSA portal or in-person at a SASSA office.
What is the amount for the Child Support Grant in 2025?
The Child Support Grant increased to R530 per child per month.
