SASSA Grant is a critical source of financial support for millions of South Africans, helping individuals and families meet their basic needs. Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking for updates in 2025, understanding how the system works is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the SASSA Grant — from the different types available to eligibility, application steps, payment dates, and more.

What is a SASSA Grant?

A SASSA Grant is a form of social assistance provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to support individuals and families who are financially vulnerable. These grants are aimed at helping people who cannot support themselves due to age, disability, lack of income, or caregiving responsibilities.

The main purpose of a SASSA Grant is to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for those in need. Whether you’re an unemployed adult, a pensioner, a child’s guardian, or someone living with a disability, SASSA offers different types of grants to meet your specific needs.

SASSA operates under the Department of Social Development (DSD) and ensures that social grants are distributed fairly, efficiently, and in line with government policy. Millions of South Africans rely on these grants as a vital source of income.

Each grant type has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and payment method. In recent years, the online application system has made it easier for many applicants to apply and track their status without visiting SASSA offices.

Types of SASSA Grants Available in 2025

There are several types of SASSA Grant options available in 2025, each designed to assist specific groups of people who need financial support. These grants are part of the government’s effort to reduce poverty and uplift vulnerable individuals and households.

Below is a list of the main SASSA Grants and what they offer:

1. Child Support Grant

This SASSA Grant provides monthly financial aid to caregivers of children under the age of 18. It helps families cover basic needs like food, clothing, and school-related expenses.

Who can apply?
Primary caregivers (parents, grandparents, or guardians) earning below a specific income threshold.

2. Older Person’s Grant (Old Age Pension)

Also known as the pensioner’s grant, this SASSA Grant supports citizens aged 60 and older who have little or no income. It helps elderly individuals live with dignity.

Who can apply?
South African citizens or permanent residents aged 60+, not receiving another social grant or earning above the set limit.

3. Disability Grant

This grant is for people who are medically certified as disabled and unable to work for more than six months.

Who can apply?
Adults between 18 and 59 years with a permanent or temporary disability, depending on the medical assessment.

4. Foster Child Grant

This SASSA Grant helps foster parents with the costs of raising a child placed in their care by a court.

Who can apply?
Foster parents with official court orders proving the foster arrangement.

5. Care Dependency Grant

Aimed at caregivers of children with severe disabilities who need full-time support.

Who can apply?
Caregivers of children under 18 with a permanent disability and a valid medical report.

6. War Veterans Grant

This grant is for former soldiers who served in World War II or the Korean War.

Who can apply?
South African citizens or permanent residents aged 60+ or disabled, who fought in WWII or the Korean War.

7. Grant-in-Aid

This SASSA Grant is for people who already receive another grant but need someone to help them with daily care due to a physical or mental condition.

Who can apply?
Grant holders who are too frail to look after themselves.

8. Social Relief of Distress (SRD Grant / R350 Grant)

This temporary grant helps people facing an urgent financial crisis, such as job loss, natural disasters, or lack of income.

Who can apply?
Unemployed individuals who are not receiving other grants or UIF and meet income criteria. This grant is often referred to as the R350 grant.

Who Qualifies for a SASSA Grant? (Eligibility Criteria)

To receive a SASSA Grant, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria based on the type of grant they are applying for. These criteria are designed to ensure that only people in genuine need of financial support receive assistance.

Although each grant has its own specific requirements, there are some general conditions that apply across most grants.

General Eligibility Requirements for All SASSA Grants

To qualify for any SASSA Grant, you usually need to meet the following conditions:

• Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee with valid documentation
• Be living in South Africa at the time of applying
• Meet the income and asset limits for the specific grant
• Not be receiving another social grant for the same purpose
• Submit all required documents (ID, proof of income, medical reports, etc.)

Specific Requirements by Grant Type

1. Child Support Grant

• The child must be under 18 years old
• The caregiver must earn below a certain income threshold
• The child must live with the applicant

2. Older Person’s Grant

• Must be 60 years or older
• Must not be receiving another pension
• Income must fall below the required limit

3. Disability Grant

• Must be between 18 and 59 years old
• Must have a permanent or temporary disability
• Must provide a valid medical assessment report

4. Foster Child Grant

• Must have a court order proving legal foster care
• The child must be under 18 (or up to 21 if still in school)

5. Care Dependency Grant

• The child must be under 18 years old
• Must have a severe disability confirmed by a medical professional
• The caregiver must meet the income limit

6. War Veterans Grant

• Must be 60 years or older, or disabled
• Must have served in World War II or the Korean War
• Must meet the means test

7. Grant-in-Aid

• Must already be receiving a SASSA Grant
• Must be unable to care for oneself and need full-time assistance
• Requires a medical assessment report

8. Social Relief of Distress (SRD/R350 Grant)

• Must be unemployed
• Must not be receiving any income, UIF, or other social grant
• Must be between 18 and 59 years old

How to Apply for a SASSA Grant in 2025

Applying for a SASSA Grant in 2025 is easier than ever, thanks to improved online services and simplified in-person procedures. Whether you’re applying for the first time or helping someone else, it’s important to follow the correct steps and prepare the necessary documents.

SASSA offers two ways to apply: online and in person at a local office.

1. Apply for a SASSA Grant Online (Recommended)

You can apply for most SASSA Grants using the online portal. This method is quicker, saves travel costs, and allows you to track your application status.

Steps to Apply Online:

1. Visit the SASSA services portal:
   Go to https://services.sassa.gov.za
2. Register an account:
   Provide your ID number, full name, contact details, and set a password.
3. Select the type of SASSA Grant:
   Choose the grant you want to apply for (e.g. Child Support, Old Age, Disability).
4. Complete the application form:
   Fill in all required information accurately.
5. Upload supporting documents:
   This may include:
   • Certified copy of your South African ID
   • Proof of income (e.g. payslip or affidavit)
   • Bank statement (3 months)
   • Medical report (if applying for disability or care dependency grant)
   • Court order (if applying for foster child grant)
6. Submit your application
   Once submitted, you’ll receive a reference number and can check your status online.

2. Apply for a SASSA Grant In Person

If you prefer applying at a SASSA office or don’t have access to the internet, you can still apply manually.

Steps to Apply In Person:

1. Visit your nearest SASSA office during working hours.
2. Bring all required documents (listed above).
3. A SASSA officer will help you complete the application form.
4. You will receive a stamped receipt as proof of application.

Important Tips for a Successful Application

• Make sure all documents are certified and clear.
• Double-check your personal details to avoid delays.
• Apply early in the month to avoid long queues and backlogs.
• Keep your reference number safe — you’ll need it to track your application.

SASSA Grant Payment Dates 2025

Knowing the exact SASSA Grant payment dates in 2025 is important for budgeting and planning your month. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) releases monthly payment schedules to ensure beneficiaries know when to expect their money.

While payment dates may vary slightly due to weekends or public holidays, SASSA generally follows a fixed monthly schedule based on the type of grant.

General Payment Schedule for SASSA Grants

SASSA usually pays grants in the following order each month:

1. Older Person’s Grants – First working day of the month
2. Disability Grants – Second working day of the month
3. Child Support Grants and all others – Third working day of the month

Month	Older Person’s Grant	Disability Grant	Child Support & Others
January 2025	Fri, 3 Jan	Mon, 6 Jan	Tue, 7 Jan
February 2025	Tue, 4 Feb	Wed, 5 Feb	Thu, 6 Feb
March 2025	Tue, 4 Mar	Wed, 5 Mar	Thu, 6 Mar
April 2025	Wed, 2 Apr	Thu, 3 Apr	Fri, 4 Apr
May 2025	Fri, 2 May	Mon, 5 May	Tue, 6 May
June 2025	Mon, 2 Jun	Tue, 3 Jun	Wed, 4 Jun
July 2025	Tue, 1 Jul	Wed, 2 Jul	Thu, 3 Jul
August 2025	Fri, 1 Aug	Mon, 4 Aug	Tue, 5 Aug
September 2025	Mon, 1 Sep	Tue, 2 Sep	Wed, 3 Sep
October 2025	Wed, 1 Oct	Thu, 2 Oct	Fri, 3 Oct
November 2025	Mon, 3 Nov	Tue, 4 Nov	Wed, 5 Nov
December 2025	Mon, 1 Dec	Tue, 2 Dec	Wed, 3 Dec

Note: These dates are subject to change. Always check SASSA’s official website or social media pages for updates.

How Are SASSA Grants Paid Out?

Beneficiaries can receive their SASSA Grant in one of the following ways:

• Directly into their bank account
• Through the SASSA Gold Card (can be used at ATMs, retailers, and Post Office)
• Cash collection points (for areas without access to banks)

You do not need to rush to collect your money on the exact date — once the grant is deposited, the funds remain in your account until you withdraw them.

How to Stay Updated with Payment Dates

To make sure you never miss a payment:

• Follow SASSA’s official Facebook and Twitter pages
• Visit www.sassa.gov.za regularly
• Save or print the monthly payment schedule
• Ask for SMS updates if available

How to Check SASSA Grant Status

After applying for a SASSA Grant, it’s important to track the status of your application to know if it has been approved, declined, or is still being processed. SASSA offers several convenient ways for beneficiaries to check the progress of their applications or monthly payment status.

Here’s a quick guide on how to check your SASSA Grant status in 2025.

1. Check SASSA Grant Status Online

This is the most convenient method.

Steps to check online:

1. Visit the official SASSA SRD status website:
   https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
2. Enter your:
   • South African ID number
   • Cell phone number used during application
3. Click “Submit” to view your status

The system will display the current status of your SASSA Grant, including whether it’s approved, pending, or declined for that month.

2. Check SASSA Grant Status via WhatsApp

SASSA also provides status updates via WhatsApp.

How to check:

• Save this number to your contacts: 082 046 8553
• Open WhatsApp and send the message: Hi
• Follow the prompts and select the option for SASSA Grant Status
• Provide your ID and phone number when requested

3. Check SASSA Status by Calling the Toll-Free Number

You can also check by speaking to a SASSA representative.

• Call: 0800 60 10 11
• Have your ID number and application reference number ready
• Follow the voice prompts or speak to an agent

4. SASSA Status via SMS (For SRD Grants)

Some applicants receive SMS updates from SASSA regarding their grant status. Make sure your phone number is always up to date in the system.

What Each Status Means

• Approved – Your SASSA Grant has been processed and is ready for payment.
• Pending – Your application is still under review.
• Declined – Your application was unsuccessful. You may see a reason like “income source identified”.
• Referred – Your application is flagged for further verification.
• Canceled – You requested to cancel your grant or SASSA canceled it due to ineligibility.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

When applying for or receiving a SASSA Grant, you may run into problems that delay your application or payment. Fortunately, most of these issues can be fixed if you know what steps to take.

Below are the most common SASSA Grant issues and how to resolve them quickly.

1. Application Status Stuck on ‘Pending’

Why it happens:

• SASSA is still verifying your documents
• System delays or high volume of applications

What to do:

• Be patient for a few more days
• Double-check that you submitted all required documents
• Contact SASSA for an update if it remains pending for more than 2–3 weeks

2. Application Declined

Common reasons:

• You have an alternative income source
• Incorrect personal details (like ID or banking info)
• Your details do not match Home Affairs records

How to fix it:

• Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za to check the reason
• If you believe it’s a mistake, submit an appeal within 30 days of the decision Use this appeal link: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals

3. Banking Details Not Updated

Why it matters:
Wrong or outdated banking info can delay your SASSA Grant payment.

What to do:

• Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za
• Scroll down to “How do I change my banking details?”
• Enter your ID number and follow the prompts
• Make sure the account is in your name

4. Missed Payments or No Payment Received

Possible causes:

• Payment system error
• You changed your bank or phone number
• Your grant was suspended or canceled

How to fix it:

• Check your grant status online
• Confirm your bank details are correct
• Visit a local SASSA office if the issue is not resolved online

5. Grant Suspended or Canceled

Reasons for suspension:

• You no longer meet the eligibility criteria
• You didn’t collect your grant for three consecutive months
• Fraudulent activity suspected

Solution:

• Visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID
• Ask for the reason for suspension and submit supporting documents
• If you disagree, request to reapply or appeal

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for more than one SASSA Grant?

No. You can only receive one type of SASSA Grant per individual, except in specific cases like receiving a Grant-in-Aid on top of another qualifying grant (e.g., Older Person’s Grant).

2. How long does it take to get approved for a SASSA Grant?

Approval usually takes 2 to 3 weeks after submitting a complete application. However, processing may take longer if documents are missing or if SASSA is dealing with a high number of applications.

3. Can I get a SASSA Grant if I’m employed part-time?

Yes, but it depends on your monthly income. Each grant has a means test, which checks if your income is below the required threshold. If you earn above the limit, your application may be declined.

4. What happens if I miss a SASSA payment collection?

If you don’t collect your SASSA Grant for three consecutive months, SASSA may suspend it. You’ll need to visit your nearest office with your ID to reactivate it or reapply.

5. Do I need to reapply for the SASSA Grant every month?

No. For permanent grants like Child Support, Older Person’s, and Disability Grants, you only need to apply once unless your circumstances change. For temporary grants like the SRD (R350) Grant, you may need to reapply or reconfirm eligibility periodically.

6. Can I apply for a SASSA Grant on behalf of someone else?

Yes. If the person is elderly, ill, or disabled, you can apply on their behalf with a power of attorney, doctor’s letter, or affidavit explaining the situation. You must also present your own ID and the applicant’s documents.

7. What documents are needed for a SASSA Grant application?

Required documents may vary depending on the grant type, but common ones include:

• Certified copy of your ID
• Proof of income or unemployment
• Bank statements (last 3 months)
• Medical reports (for disability or care dependency grants)
• Court orders (for foster child grant)

8. Where can I update my contact or banking details?

You can update your details on the official SASSA SRD site:
👉 https://srd.sassa.gov.za
Look for the section labeled “Change banking or contact details.”

Conclusion

The SASSA Grant plays a vital role in supporting millions of South Africans who face financial challenges. Whether you’re applying for the first time or checking your payment status, knowing the right steps and eligibility criteria can help you access the support you need without confusion.

In this guide, we’ve covered everything from the types of grants available in 2025 to how you can apply, check your status, and resolve common issues. Always ensure your information is up to date and that you meet the qualifying requirements for your specific grant type.

If you’re unsure about anything, visit your nearest SASSA office or use the official SASSA website to get reliable and updated information.

By staying informed and prepared, you can make the most of the SASSA Grant system and ensure your application or payment process goes as smoothly as possible.