All Types of SASSA Grants [Updated Amounts & Eligibility]
Are you trying to stretch every rand, worried about how to buy food or pay rent? You’re not alone, According to Reuters.com South Africa’s official unemployment rate hit 32.9% in early 2025, a surge that left over 8.2 million people jobless.
That’s why SASSA grants, like the Older Person’s, Child Support, and Disability grants offer real relief for families just trying to get by.
What Are SASSA Grants?
SASSA grants are monthly financial payments made by the South African government to support citizens who cannot fully provide for themselves.
They’re designed as a social safety net, covering groups such as the elderly, people with disabilities, war veterans, children, foster families, and those facing temporary financial crises.
To qualify, applicants must meet certain eligibility rules and pass the means test, which looks at income and assets to ensure assistance goes to households that truly need it.
SASSA Grant Amounts in April 2025
As of April 2025, the South African government increased grant amounts to adjust for inflation and living costs. Another increase is expected in October 2025.
Here’s a quick look at current amounts:
Grant Type | Oct 2024 Amount | April 2025 Amount | Increase |
Older Person’s Grant (60–74) | R2,190 | R2,310 | +R120 |
Older Person’s Grant (75+) | R2,210 | R2,330 | +R120 |
Disability Grant | R2,190 | R2,310 | +R120 |
Care Dependency Grant | R2,190 | R2,310 | +R120 |
War Veterans Grant | R2,210 | R2,330 | +R120 |
Child Support Grant | R530 | R560 | +R30 |
Foster Child Grant | R1,180 | R1,250 | +R70 |
Grant-in-Aid | R530 | R560 | +R30 |
SRD (Social Relief) Grant | R370 | R370 | — |
Types of SASSA Grants in 2025
1. Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 Grant
The SRD grant, sometimes called the “R350 or R370 grant,” was raised to R370 in April 2024. It supports unemployed citizens or those in temporary financial crisis.
Who qualifies?
- South African citizens, asylum seekers, or permanent residents.
- Between 18–59 years.
- No other form of income or social grant.
Amount: R370 per month.
Duration: Temporary assistance, reviewed every 12 months.
Application:
- Apply online via the SASSA SRD website.
- Or apply at a local SASSA office.
2. Older Person’s Grant
Known as the Old Age Pension, this grant supports elderly citizens who no longer earn enough to live independently.
Eligibility:
- South African citizens or permanent residents.
- Aged 60 years or older.
- Must pass the means test (single income below R8,070/month, married couple below R16,140/month).
Amount (April 2025):
- R2,310 per month (ages 60–74).
- R2,330 per month (75 years+).
Application process:
- Apply in person at a SASSA office or online.
- Required documents: ID, proof of income, bank details, and proof of residence.
3. Disability Grant
This grant supports individuals aged 18–59 who are unable to work due to physical or mental disability.
Eligibility:
- Must be assessed by a state-approved doctor.
- Must pass the means test.
- South African citizen or permanent resident.
Amount (April 2025): R2,310 per month.
Key facts:
- Can be temporary (6–12 months) or permanent, depending on medical assessment.
- Medical reassessment may be required annually.
4. War Veterans Grant
This grant is specifically for those who served in World War II or the Korean War.
Eligibility:
- Must be 60 years or older OR permanently disabled.
- South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Proof of war service required.
Amount (April 2025): R2,330 per month.
5. Child Support Grant (CSG)
The Child Support Grant helps low-income caregivers provide for children under 18 years.
Eligibility:
- Caregiver must be South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Child must live in South Africa.
- Income threshold: less than R5,000/month (single) or R10,000/month (married).
Amount (April 2025): R560 per child.
Note: Can be claimed for multiple children if caregiver qualifies.
6. Foster Child Grant
For children placed in legal foster care by a court.
Eligibility:
- Legal foster parent with a valid court order.
- Child under 18 (or up to 21 if still studying).
Amount (April 2025): R1,250 per child.
Key facts:
- Covers education, healthcare, and daily needs.
- Court order must be submitted when applying.
7. Care Dependency Grant
This grant assists caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require full-time care.
Eligibility:
- Child under 18 with confirmed medical disability.
- Means test applies.
- South African citizen or permanent resident.
Amount (April 2025): R2,310 per month.
Documents required:
- Child’s ID or birth certificate.
- Medical assessments and reports.
- Proof of caregiver’s income.
8. Grant-in-Aid
This is an additional grant for people who already receive the Older Person’s, Disability, or War Veterans Grant but need full-time care at home.
Eligibility:
- Must already be a SASSA grant holder.
- Must provide medical proof showing need for constant care.
Amount (April 2025): R560 per month (on top of the main grant).
How to Apply for SASSA Grants? (2025)
Option 1: At a SASSA Office
- Visit your nearest office with all required documents.
- Fill in the application form (free).
- Submit documents and receive a receipt/application number.
Option 2: SASSA Online Application
- Visit the official SASSA Services Portal.
- Create an account or log in.
- Select the grant you’re applying for.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents.
- Submit and keep your application reference number.
Processing time: Usually within 90 days.
What Happens After You Apply?
- Approved: You’ll start receiving monthly payments through your chosen method (bank, SASSA card, or cash point).
- Rejected: You can appeal the decision within 90 days.
- Pending: SASSA might request additional documents.
Understanding the Means Test
The means test ensures grants go only to those who genuinely need them. It checks:
- Income (salary, business, pension).
- Assets (property, vehicles, investments).
- Household support from others.
If your income/assets exceed the threshold, your application may be declined.
How Do You Receive SASSA Payments?
- Bank deposit (fastest and most secure).
- SASSA card (can be used at ATMs, retailers, or pay points).
- Cash collection points (for those without bank accounts).
Conclusion
SASSA grants are more than just monthly payments, they are a lifeline for millions of South Africans. From the Older Person’s Grant to the Child Support Grant, each type targets a specific need, ensuring no vulnerable group is left behind.
With the April 2025 increases, support is slightly higher, and another increase is expected in October 2025.
If you or your family qualify, applying can ease financial stress and provide stability. Always keep documents updated, reapply when needed, and check your SASSA status online to stay informed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I apply for more than one SASSA grant?
No, you can only receive one grant per person, except for Grant-in-Aid, which is an add-on.
Q. How long does SASSA take to approve a grant?
Most applications are processed within 90 days, but delays may occur if documents are missing.
Q. What is the SRD grant amount in 2025?
The SRD grant remains R370 per month as of April 2025.
Q. When will the next increase happen?
The next SASSA grant increase is scheduled for October 2025.
Q. Do SASSA grants stop automatically when circumstances change?
Yes. If your income improves or your situation changes (e.g., a child turns 18), the grant may stop.