Millions of South Africans reliant on social grants will see increased payments starting April 2025, as confirmed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced the adjustments during his 2025 Budget Speech, underscoring the government’s commitment to mitigating poverty while balancing fiscal sustainability.
Grant increases and payment schedule
All seven permanent SASSA grants will receive increases effective April 2025, though the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant remains unchanged pending a September 2025 review.
The adjustments are as follows:
| Grant | New Amount | Payment Date |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age Grant | R2,185 → R2,315 | Thursday, April 3 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,205 → R2,335 | Saturday, April 5 |
| Disability Grant | R2,185 → R2,315 | Friday, April 4 |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,180 → R1,250 | Saturday, April 5 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,185 → R2,315 | Saturday, April 5 |
| Child Support Grant | R530 → R560 | Saturday, April 5 |
| Grant-in-Aid | R530 → R560 | Saturday, April 5 |
NOTES:
- SRD grant excluded (remains R370/month until March 2026).
On Human Rights Day, SASSA reiterated its slogan—“paying the right social grant, to the right person, at the right time and place. NJALO!”—urging beneficiaries to use allocated payment methods and resolve expired cards or application issues promptly.
Background: A lifeline for 28 million South Africans
Social grants sustain approximately 28 million South Africans, or 45% of the population, with 19 million relying on permanent grants (excluding SRD) and 9 million on the SRD. By 2027/28, permanent grant beneficiaries are projected to rise to 19.3 million due to an aging population.
Godongwana emphasised, “Ours is one of the most comprehensive social safety nets among emerging economies… reflecting our commitment to addressing poverty and inequality.”
The 2025/26 social grant budget totals R284.7 billion, part of a R422.3 billion allocation to the Department of Social Development.
However, sustainability concerns loom. With only 7.4 million personal income taxpayers funding grants and public services, the government announced VAT hikes: 15.5% in 2025/26 and 16% in 2026/27.
As such, the National Treasury stressed the need for reforms, including biometric verification to curb fraud and ensure long-term viability.
SRD grant’s uncertain future
The SRD grant, extended at R370/month until March 2026, supports unemployed citizens but faces restructuring.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwan noted during the 2025 Budget Speech that it will inform a “sustainable income support” system post-2025, pending a labor market review.
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2025 Human Rights Day message
Coinciding with April’s payments, SASSA marked Human Rights Day on Friday, March 21, affirming: “Everyone has the right to a better life… The state must ensure appropriate social assistance when people are unable to support themselves.”
The agency highlighted constitutional guarantees to dignity and social security, aligning with its mandate to empower vulnerable groups.
Key stats at a glance
- Total grant recipients (2025): 28 million (19 million permanent, 9 million SRD)
- Taxpayer-to-recipient ratio: 1:3.8
- Medium-term budget increase: R8.2 billion (2025–2027)
- SRD allocation: R35.2 billion (2025/26)
As inflation pressures persist, SASSA’s role remains critical in bridging South Africa’s inequality gap—a challenge balancing compassion with economic pragmatism
Queries & complaints
Contact SASSA:
- Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
- Head Office: 012 400 2322
- Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
- For grant details: SASSA Official Website
