Older Person’s Grant – In a major relief to millions of senior citizens, the South African government has announced a significant increase in the Older Person’s Grant starting May 2025. This increment will see qualifying pensioners receiving either R4,190 or R4,610, depending on their age and specific eligibility. The change has been confirmed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and aims to counter inflation and rising living costs.
New Older Person’s Grant Amounts Announced
The updated grant values come as part of government efforts to provide better financial support to the elderly population. The adjustment also reflects changes in the national budget allocation and ongoing reforms in the country’s social welfare system.
Older Person’s Grant Breakdown:
- Pensioners aged 60 to 74 years will now receive R4,190
- Pensioners aged 75 years and above will get R4,610
- Payments begin from May 3rd, 2025 and will continue monthly
- Beneficiaries must be on the approved SASSA list to receive the new amounts
- Increases are applied automatically to eligible recipients’ accounts
- No new application is needed if already receiving the Older Person’s Grant
- Payments will be made via bank transfers, retail outlets, and Post Office
- Ensure your bank and personal details are updated with SASSA
Eligibility Criteria for the Increased Pension Grant
To benefit from the newly increased amounts, pensioners must continue to meet existing eligibility rules set by SASSA and Department of Social Development.
You must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee
- Be 60 years or older
- Not be receiving another social grant for yourself
- Not earn more than R96,840 (single) or R193,680 (married) annually
- Not have assets worth more than R1,372,800 (single) or R2,745,600 (married)
- Live in South Africa at the time of applying and collecting your grant
Payment Dates for May 2025
Below is the confirmed Older Person’s Grant payment schedule for May 2025:
| Grant Type | Payment Date | Amount (60-74 yrs) | Amount (75+ yrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Person’s Grant | 3 May 2025 | R4,190 | R4,610 |
| Disability Grant | 6 May 2025 | R2,090 | — |
| Child Support Grant | 7 May 2025 | R530 | — |
| Foster Child Grant | 7 May 2025 | R1,180 | — |
| Care Dependency Grant | 6 May 2025 | R2,090 | — |
| War Veteran’s Grant | 3 May 2025 | R4,610 | — |
| Grant-in-Aid | 6 May 2025 | R530 | — |
| SRD (UBIG) Grant | Starts 7 May | R370 | — |
What Should Beneficiaries Do Now?
- Check your SASSA status on the official website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Ensure your contact and banking details are updated
- Do not reapply if you are already receiving the Older Person’s Grant
- If there are issues with payment, contact SASSA using the details below
- Visit your nearest SASSA office for in-person verification or help
Monthly Grant Amount Comparison – Before vs. After May 2025
| Age Group | Old Amount (Until April 2025) | New Amount (From May 2025) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60–74 years | R2,180 | R4,190 | +R2,010 |
| 75 years and above | R2,200 | R4,610 | +R2,410 |
| Disability Grant | R2,090 | R2,090 | No change |
| War Veterans | R2,200 | R4,610 | +R2,410 |
| Child Support Grant | R530 | R530 | No change |
| Grant-in-Aid | R530 | R530 | No change |
Important SASSA Contact Details
If you experience delays, errors, or need to update your personal details, reach out to SASSA through any of the channels below:
- Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
- SASSA Website: https://www.sassa.gov.za
- Email: [email protected]
- WhatsApp Support: 082 046 8553
- Head Office Address: SASSA House, 501 Prodinsa Building, Cnr Steve Biko and Pretorius Streets, Pretoria
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 16:00
FAQs – Older Person’s Grant
Q1: Do I need to reapply to get the increased Older Person’s Grant?
A: No, if you’re already an approved beneficiary, the increase will reflect automatically in your May payment.
Q2: What if I turn 75 in May 2025? Will I receive the higher amount?
A: Yes, from the month you turn 75, your grant will increase to R4,610.
Q3: How do I update my banking details with SASSA?
A: Visit the SASSA services portal or your nearest SASSA office with your ID and proof of banking.
Q4: What should I do if I didn’t receive my payment?
A: Contact SASSA immediately using the toll-free number or visit an office with your ID and proof of grant approval.
Q5: Will the payment dates change next month?
A: SASSA usually follows a consistent payment schedule. Changes, if any, will be updated on the official SASSA website.
Conclusion – Older Person’s Grant
The increase in the Older Person’s Grant to R4,190 and R4,610 from May 2025 brings a much-needed boost to South Africa’s elderly population. The government continues to recognize the financial challenges faced by seniors and is working to ease their burden. Beneficiaries are urged to check their status regularly, update their personal details if necessary, and contact SASSA for any payment issues. This initiative is a strong step toward ensuring dignified living for the elderly in the country.