The SASSA old age grant is a social assistance benefit provided to South African citizens, permanent residents, and refugees aged 60 years or older.

It is designed to support older persons with limited income and assets, ensuring financial security during retirement.

Who Qualifies for the SASSA Old Age Grant?

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
  • Reside in South Africa.
  • Be 60 years or older.
  • Not receive another social grant for themselves.
  • Not be cared for in a state institution.
  • Meet the means test:
    • Income must not exceed R86 280 per year (single) or R172 560 (married).
    • Assets must not exceed R1 227 600 (single) or R2 455 200 (married).

How Much Will You Receive?

  • The maximum monthly grant is R2 310.
  • Beneficiaries aged 75 years or older receive R2 330.

Payment Methods

SASSA pays the old age grant through the following channels:

  1. Cash payments at designated pay points.
  2. Electronic deposit into a bank or Postbank account (bank charges may apply).
  3. Institutional payments, such as old age homes.

If you are unable to collect the money yourself, you can appoint a procurator at a SASSA office or give someone power of attorney.

Grant Reviews and Suspensions

  • Grants may be reviewed based on changes in income or circumstances.
  • Beneficiaries receiving payments via banks, institutions, or procurators must complete a life certificate annually.
  • Grants may be suspended due to:
    • Change in circumstances.
    • Failure to cooperate during reviews.
    • Fraud or misrepresentation.
    • Administrative errors at approval.

When Does the Grant Lapse?

The old age grant lapses if you:

  • Pass away.
  • Enter a state institution.
  • Fail to claim for three consecutive months.
  • Leave South Africa permanently.

If admitted to a state-contracted institution, the grant is reduced to 25% of its value from the fourth month of admission. The full amount is reinstated upon discharge.

How to Apply for the SASSA Old Age Grant

  1. Visit your nearest SASSA office.
  2. Bring required documents:
    • 13-digit bar-coded ID (or an affidavit and supporting documents if no ID).
    • Proof of marital status, residence, income, assets, and bank statements.
    • Proof of UIF membership or discharge certificate (if previously employed).
    • Copy of spouse’s will and estate documents (if applicable).
  3. Complete the application form in the presence of a SASSA officer.
  4. Undergo an interview and receive a receipt as proof of application.

If you cannot apply in person due to illness or age, a family member or friend can apply on your behalf with supporting documents.

Application Outcomes

  • If successful, you will be paid from the date of application.
  • If unsuccessful, SASSA will provide written reasons.
  • You may appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days of notification.

Processing Time and Cost

  • Processing may take up to three months.
  • The service is free of charge.

FAQ: SASSA Old Age Grant

1. What is the SASSA old age grant amount in 2025?
The maximum amount is R2 310 per month, and R2 330 if you are over 75 years old.

2. Who qualifies for the SASSA old age grant?
South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees aged 60 or older who meet the income and asset means test.

3. How do I apply for the SASSA old age grant?
Visit your nearest SASSA office with the required documents, complete the form, and undergo an interview.

4. Can someone apply for the grant on my behalf?
Yes. A family member or friend may apply with a doctor’s note and supporting documents.

5. How long does it take for SASSA to process the old age grant?
It may take up to three months. Payments are backdated to the application date if approved.

6. Can my SASSA old age grant be suspended?
Yes. Grants may be suspended due to fraud, changes in income, failure to comply with reviews, or administrative errors.

7. Does the SASSA old age grant lapse automatically?
Yes. It lapses upon death, permanent admission to a state institution, failure to claim for three months, or permanent relocation outside South Africa.