Millions of South Africans who rely on the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grants can look forward to a positive outlook for April 2025, with proposed payment increases across all eight grants aimed at providing much-needed relief to vulnerable communities.
Despite the postponement of Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Budget Speech to March 12, 2025, the Treasury has revealed plans for significant above-inflation increases to social grants, including the extension of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant until March 2026.
This move underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the country’s most vulnerable populations during challenging economic times.
Proposed Payment Increases for All 8 SASSA Grants
The Treasury’s undelivered 2025 Budget Speech outlined a R23.3 billion injection into social grants and welfare programs, ensuring that low-income households are not left worse off by proposed tax adjustments. Below are the proposed payment increases for all eight SASSA grants in 2025:
| Grant Type | Old Amount (R) | Increase (R) | New Amount (R) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Grant | 2,185 | 150 | 2,335 |
| War Veterans Grant | 2,205 | 150 | 2,355 |
| Disability Grant | 2,185 | 150 | 2,335 |
| Foster Care Grant | 1,180 | 80 | 1,260 |
| Care Dependency Grant | 2,185 | 150 | 2,335 |
| Child Support Grant | 530 | 50 | 580 |
| Grant-in-Aid | 530 | 50 | 580 |
| SRD Grant | 370 | – | Under review |
Note: These amounts are subject to final approval following the Budget Speech on March 12, 2025.
Key Highlights of the Proposed Payment Increases
- Old Age Grant: A R150 increase will bring the monthly payout to R2,335, providing critical support to seniors aged 60 and older.
- Child Support Grant: A R50 increase to R580 will benefit nearly 13 million children, offering essential relief to caregivers.
- Foster Care Grant: An R80 increase to R1,260 will aid foster parents in providing for children in their care.
- SRD Grant Extension: The COVID-19 SRD grant, which supports over 8 million recipients, will be extended until March 2026 at a cost of R35 billion. This aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s commitment to using the SRD grant as a foundation for sustainable income support for unemployed individuals.
A Lifeline for Vulnerable Communities
The proposed payment increases are designed to shield over 25 million social grant beneficiaries from the rising cost of living. Arthur Kamp, chief economist at Sanlam Investments, highlighted the potential long-term implications of expanding the SRD grant. “Increasing the number of recipients implies higher spending of more than R30-billion a year if implemented in future years. Neither of these spending risks are expected to influence the Treasury’s near-term expenditure projections, but the medium to long-term risk lingers,” he told Daily Maverick.
For beneficiaries like Madimakatso Mokoloko, a 36-year-old mother of six from the Free State, the proposed increases offer a glimmer of hope. “As a mother of six, I struggle to make ends meet with the current grant. The children’s grants alone don’t cover their costs, and with R370 I can barely cover the basics — maize meal and electricity. There’s nothing left for toiletries or transport to look for work. I hope the grant will increase, at least to R700, to help me provide for my family’s needs,” she said.
Payment Dates and Methods for April 2025
While the exact payment dates for April 2025 are yet to be confirmed, beneficiaries can expect the following payment methods to remain available:
- Direct Bank Deposit: Grants can be paid directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
- Cash Withdrawals: Beneficiaries can withdraw their grants at designated payment points, including ATMs and retail stores such as Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, Spar, and Boxer.
How to Apply for SASSA Grants
Applying for a SASSA grant is straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit a SASSA Office: Apply in person at your nearest SASSA office.
- Authorize a Representative: If you’re unable to apply due to age or illness, a family member or friend can apply on your behalf using a power of attorney.
- Request a Home Visit: If you’re unable to visit an office, you can request a home visit, though this may take additional time to arrange.
Stay Informed and Prepared
Beneficiaries are encouraged to ensure their details are up-to-date to avoid any delays with their April 2025 grant payments. For further assistance, you can contact SASSA directly:
- SASSA Toll-Free Call: 0800 60 10 11
- SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2322
- Email SASSA: grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Email Postbank: postbank.enquiries@postbank.co.za
Reassuring outlook for 2025 SASSA grants
The proposed payment increases to all eight SASSA grants for April 2025 reflect the government’s commitment to supporting South Africa’s most vulnerable populations. With above-inflation adjustments and the extension of the SRD grant, millions of beneficiaries can look forward to much-needed relief.
As the nation awaits the final Budget Speech on March 12, 2025, the positive outlook for SASSA grants offers hope and reassurance to those who depend on this critical support.
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