The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed that May 2025 grant payments will be disbursed later than usual.
Due to a rare calendar alignment, Older Person Grants will only be paid out from Tuesday, May 6, 2025—a full week later than the typical schedule.
This delay comes at a tough time for many grant recipients, as inflation rises and VAT hikes loom.
Why the delay?
April’s grant payments were made from Wednesday, April 2 – starting with the elderly. However, the next disbursement won’t come until May 6. This five-week gap forces elderly beneficiaries to stretch their April funds during a time marked by multiple public holidays: Easter weekend (April 18–21), Freedom Day (April 28), and Worker’s Day (May 1).
These long weekends disrupt banking services, increase household expenses, and impact casual work income.
Grant increase at risk?
On a positive note, the April 2025 disbursement included the first above-inflation increase in years. Older Persons and War Veterans Grants rose by R130 to R2315 per month and from R2,205 to R2,315 & R2,335 respectively. The Children Grants on the other hand saw a R30 increase, bringing the the new amount to R560 per child. Additionally the Foster Care Grant by R70 to R1,250.
However, these gains are already being threatened by a VAT increase, expected to take effect from June 2025, which could erode the value of the hike almost immediately.
Full payment schedule:
- Older Persons & War Veterans Grants – Tuesday, May 6
- Disability & Grant-in-Aid – Wednesday, May 7
- Child Support, Foster Care & Care Dependency – Thursday, May 8
The May payments reflect above-inflation increases announced in the 2025/26 national budget. Below are the expected payout amounts for all 8 SASSA Grants in May 2025:
Older Persons (60–74): R2,315
Older Persons (75+): R2,335
War Veterans: R2,335
Disability & Care Dependency: R2,315
Foster Care: R1,200
Childcare & Grant-in-Aid: R560
Important: Despite the positive April increases, beneficiaries are warned that potential VAT hikes and economic pressure could lead to future cuts or reversal of increases.
5 steps to avoid SASSA Grant delays this May
- Mark the new payment date
Set a reminder for Tuesday, 6 May 2025. Plan grocery shopping and bill payments accordingly. - Switch to a bank account
Following the suspension of Postbank black cards, the Portfolio Committee on Social Development strongly urges beneficiaries still using SASSA gold cards to open accounts with banks of their choice. The gold cards are only usable until end of May 2025. - Confirm your status
Double-check your grant status via SASSA’s toll-free number (0800 601 011) or your nearest branch to ensure there are no issues with your application or banking details. - Keep documents updated
Make sure your proof of residence, bank statements, and income declarations are up-to-date. SASSA may conduct random reviews and you’ll need to present these within a 3-month notice period. - Avoid reapplication scams
Once approved, you do not need to reapply. Be wary of scams that claim otherwise.
ALSO READ: SASSA SRD Grant April 2025/26 application: 4 costly mistakes to avoid
Still applying? Here’s what you need
New applicants must apply in person at a SASSA branch. Bring:
- Barcoded ID or smart card
- Proof of address (utility bill)
- Proof of income, dividends, or private pension
- Bank-stamped statements (last 3 months)
- Marriage certificate, if applicable
- UIF documents or discharge certificate
- Doctor’s letter if someone is applying on your behalf
Know the eligibility thresholds
Grants are means- and asset-tested. As of 2025:
- Singles: Income below R8 070/month; assets under R1 372 800
- Married couples: Combined income under R16 140/month; assets under R2 745 600
Denied applicants have 90 days to appeal through the Department of Social Development.
Stories Shaping South Africa Today
As SASSA payments evolve and economic conditions shift, we’ll keep you updated on every step of the process.
