SASSA Older Persons Grant 2026

Your Monthly Support for a Dignified Retirement

Effective 1 April 2026
R2,400 per month – Ages 60 to 74
R2,420 per month – Ages 75 and older

✅ Amounts confirmed after the February 2026 National Budget
✅ Always verify the latest details at www.sassa.gov.za

The SASSA Older Persons Grant – widely known as the Old Age Pension – is a vital non-contributory social grant that provides monthly financial support to eligible South Africans aged 60 and older. It is not based on past employment or pension contributions. It exists purely to protect older citizens (and often their extended families) from poverty.

Administered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and funded by the national government, this grant is one of the country’s largest and most impactful social safety nets. In 2026, it reaches millions of elderly South Africans, helping cover essentials like food, medication, utilities, and transport while reducing the financial burden on adult children and grandchildren.

2026 Monthly Amounts (effective 1 April 2026):

• R2,400 – for recipients aged 60 to 74
• R2,420 – for recipients aged 75 and older

These increases (approximately R80–R90, depending on age group) were announced in the 2026 National Budget and reflect the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable seniors against inflation.

You must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognised refugee (as defined in the Refugees Act)
• Be 60 years of age or older
• Reside in South Africa
• Not receiving care or services in a state-funded institution (e.g., government old-age home)
• Not receiving any other SASSA grant for yourself (except a Grant-in-Aid if you require full-time care)
• Pass the means test (income + assets below the thresholds below)

Updated Means Test – 2026 Thresholds

Applicant Status	Maximum Annual Income	Approximate Monthly Income	Maximum Assets
Single applicant	R107,880	R8,990	R1,524,600
Married couple (combined)	R215,760	R17,980	R3,049,200

Important notes on the means test:

• Your primary residence (the home you live in) is excluded from asset calculations.
• Income includes wages, private pensions, interest, rental income, maintenance payments, and most other sources.
• Assets include savings, investments, additional properties, vehicles (above basic value), and other valuables.
• If you are unsure, SASSA officials will assess your situation fairly during the application process.

Nuance: The means test is applied to both the applicant and their spouse. Even a small private pension can affect eligibility, but many applicants still qualify if their total income falls below the threshold.

Prepare these originals + photocopies before you visit a SASSA office or apply online:

• South African ID (green barcoded book or Smart ID card)
• Proof of income (latest payslips, bank statements for 3 months, or affidavit if no income)
• Proof of residence (utility bill, lease agreement, or affidavit)
• Bank account details (stamped statement or confirmation letter) – or request a free Postbank Gold Card
• Marriage certificate (if married)
• Spouse’s ID (if applicable)

No bank account? No problem. SASSA will help you open a free Postbank account on the spot.

You can apply in person at your nearest SASSA office or online via the SASSA services portal (smart ID required for online).

In-person process (most common):

1. Locate your office – Call the free helpline 0800 60 10 11 or use the SASSA office finder on their website.
2. Gather documents – Bring everything listed above.
3. Arrive early – Offices open around 08:00. Arriving before 08:30 dramatically improves your chances of same-day service.
4. Request the Older Persons Grant – The intake clerk will guide you.
5. Complete the application – A SASSA official assists you (no need to fill forms alone).
6. Fingerprints & biometrics – Standard legal requirement.
7. Receive your reference number – This is your proof of application. Keep it safe.

Processing time: SASSA must respond within 90 days. If you hear nothing, call 0800 60 10 11 with your reference number.

Pro tip: Applications are date-stamped from the day you submit complete documents. Approval is backdated to that date.

Older Persons Grants are paid early each month (usually around the 3rd). Exact 2026 dates (subject to public holidays):

• 2 January • 3 February • 3 March • 2 April • 6 May* • 3 June • 3 July • 5 August • 3 September • 2 October • 3 November • 3 December

*May be adjusted for public holidays.

Full 2026 Payment Schedule → [Link to official SASSA calendar or embed table]

Payments are made via:

• Direct bank deposit (fastest)
• Postbank Gold Card
• Cash at designated pay points (with ID)

Don’t delay – the grant is backdated to the date of your complete application.

Official Channels Only:

• Helpline: 0800 60 10 11 (free)
• Website: www.sassa.gov.za
• Online application portal: services.sassa.gov.za