Concerns Rise Over April 2026 SASSA Old-Age Grant Payments

The government confirmed the April 2026 SASSA Old-Age Grant increases. However, many beneficiaries remain unhappy with the small rise.

Old-Age Grants for people aged 60 to 74 will increase to R2 400, up from R2 320. Meanwhile, grants for people aged 75 and older will rise to R2 420, up from R2 340. However, civil society groups criticised the 3.4% increase as too small. Many believe the increase will not cover rising living costs.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana defended the decision. He explained the increase reflects the country’s lower inflation rate last year. However, beneficiaries face another concern besides the small increase. There is still no confirmed payment date for April 2026 SASSA Old-Age Grants.

Payment Date Delay and Grant Reviews

Typically, SASSA pays Old-Age Grants on the first Tuesday of each month. For example, payments occurred on Tuesday, 3 March. However, April presents a calendar challenge. The first Tuesday falls on 7 April, creating a long five-week wait.

Therefore, many pensioners could experience payment delays. SASSA sometimes moves payment dates forward. If this happens, payments could occur on Wednesday 1 April or Thursday 2 April. However, the agency has not confirmed the date yet. Meanwhile, grant increases are smaller than last year. This year’s increase is R80, compared with R110 in 2025.

The change followed two failed 2025 budget attempts by the Finance Minister. Earlier plans matched grants with 4.8% inflation. However, that proposal included a VAT increase, which Parliament rejected.

Despite this, the grant increases still proceeded. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Development promised stricter grant reviews. Officials aim to reduce corruption and fraudulent claims.

The department expects to save R2 billion in 2026/27. Furthermore, it expects R1 billion savings in 2027/28.

Income Rules and How to Secure Your Grant

SASSA will now conduct stricter asset and means tests. Therefore, beneficiaries must keep their personal details updated.

Additionally, SASSA now monitors income using improved digital systems. The agency cross-checks data with government departments and banks.

These databases include UIF, DHA, NSFAS and banking records. Anyone receiving a grant illegally may face repayment with interest.

To qualify for Old-Age Grants, applicants must meet income limits. Single applicants must earn less than R8 983 per month.
Married couples must earn less than R17 980 per month. Annually, this equals R107 800 for singles and R215 760 for couples.

Applicants must also meet asset limits. Single applicants cannot exceed R1 524 600 in assets. Married couples cannot exceed R3 049 200 in assets.

Applicants must also provide several documents. These include a South African ID or Smart ID card. Applicants must submit three months of certified bank statements. They must also provide proof of residence and marital status. Documents proving income, property, and pension details are required.

Applicants who cannot travel may receive help from a family member. However, a doctor’s letter must explain the situation.

Applications may take three months to process. However, successful applicants receive back-pay from the application date.

If SASSA rejects your application, you have 90 days to appeal. Beneficiaries can contact SASSA using the following details:

SASSA toll-free line: 0800 601 011
SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2322
Email: [email protected]