As the cost of living continues to rise across South Africa, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced increased grant payments effective from May 2025.
This adjustment brings welcome relief to millions of grant recipients who rely on monthly support for essentials such as food, healthcare, and housing.
This guide breaks down the new payment amounts, eligibility criteria, key dates, and other essential updates for May 2025.
Updated SASSA Grant Amounts for May 2025
The following table outlines the latest payment increases across all major SASSA grants starting May 2025:
| Grant Type | Previous Amount (ZAR) | New Amount (ZAR) | Increase (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Grant (60–74 years) | R2,185 | R2,315 | +R130 |
| Old Age Grant (75+ years) | R2,200 | R2,335 | +R135 |
| Disability Grant | R2,185 | R2,315 | +R130 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,185 | R2,315 | +R130 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,200 | R2,335 | +R135 |
| Foster Child Grant | R1,180 | R1,250 | +R70 |
| Child Support Grant | R530 | R560 | +R30 |
| Grant-in-Aid | R510 | R540 | +R30 |
| SRD (Social Relief of Distress) | R350 | R370 | +R20 |
These increases reflect a continued effort by the government to cushion vulnerable groups from economic hardship, especially pensioners, people with disabilities, and low-income families.
Who Qualifies for the May 2025 SASSA Grants?
Each grant has specific eligibility requirements. Here’s a summary of who qualifies:
Old Age Grant
- Must be 60 years or older
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Must not earn more than R96,840 (single) or R193,680 (married) per year
- Must not own assets exceeding R1,372,800 (single) or R2,745,600 (married)
Disability Grant
- Age between 18 and 59
- Must have a permanent or temporary disability certified by a medical assessment
- Must meet the same means test as the Old Age Grant
Child Support Grant
- Caregiver of a child under the age of 18
- Must meet income thresholds: not more than R57,600 annually (single) or R115,200 (married)
Foster Child Grant
- Must be a court-appointed foster parent
- No means test is applied
Care Dependency Grant
- For caregivers of children with severe disabilities
- The child must require permanent home care
War Veterans Grant
- Must be 60+ years old and have served in WWII or the Korean War
- Must meet the means test criteria
SRD R370 Grant
- Must be unemployed and not receiving other government aid
- Must be South African or a refugee/asylum seeker/permanent resident
- Income must be less than R624 per month
May 2025 Payment Schedule
Here are the expected payment dates for May 2025:
| Grant Type | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | Friday, 3 May 2025 |
| Disability Grant | Monday, 6 May 2025 |
| Child Support & Others | Tuesday, 7 May 2025 |
Payments are usually made via direct deposit, SASSA card, or CashSend. Beneficiaries are advised not to rush to pay points on the first day, as payments remain available.
How to Apply for SASSA Grants in 2025
SASSA applications can be submitted in person at a local office or online. Here are the documents usually required:
- ID document or birth certificate
- Proof of income/assets
- Medical assessment (if applying for a disability-related grant)
- Court order (for foster grants)
- Banking details or consent for SASSA to open an account
All applications are free of charge, and results may take up to 3 months to finalize.
The increase in SASSA grants for May 2025 provides much-needed relief amid inflation and rising costs. With higher payments, clear eligibility guidelines, and structured schedules, beneficiaries can better manage their monthly expenses.
Whether you’re receiving the Old Age Grant, Child Support, or the SRD R370, staying informed is key to securing your financial assistance on time.
Make sure to double-check your details, keep track of your payment dates, and contact SASSA immediately if there are any issues with your grant status.
FAQs
Can I still collect my grant if I missed the payment date?
Yes, your funds remain available in your account. You can access the money even after the scheduled payment date.
What happens if I no longer meet the eligibility requirements?
If your financial or personal situation changes, SASSA may suspend or cancel your grant. Always update your details to avoid overpayments.
Can I apply for more than one SASSA grant at a time?
No, generally you can only receive one grant per person, except for the Grant-in-Aid, which may be added to other grants under specific conditions.