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Johannesburg — the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has brought good news for the elderly this January, as payments will be issued earlier than usual.
Mark your calendars: Friday, January 3, 2025, is the date when grants will be available, providing timely support for the country’s elderly after the festive season. Disability and children grants will be paid from Monday and Tuesday (January 7 and 8) responsibility, the Department of Social Development said on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, payments for Covid-19 Relief of Distress (SRD) clients who were approved for the month of January 2025 will be processed from January 25 to 31.
Why the early Payment?
This year’s calendar configuration allows for an earlier-than-usual grant payment date, offering welcome relief to older citizens who rely on these funds. While the grant amounts remain unchanged—R2,190 for those aged 60–74 and R2,210 for those over 75—recipients can now access their funds sooner to help ease financial pressures.
Despite the welcomed good news of early January 2025 payments, 2024 was fraught with difficulties for the Department of Social Development. Issues of maladministration led to the suspension of SASSA’s CEO Busisiwe Memela-Khambula over probe into her appointment – and the subsequent appointment of Themba Matlou as the acting CEO in December 2024 – and increased scrutiny of the agency’s operations. Over 150,000 accounts were closed in early 2024, raising concerns about eligibility verification processes.
Furthermore the Social Department launched an investigation into allegations of identity theft regarding the COVID-19 R370 SRD grant (which has more than 17 million recipients so date) — this after it was raised by two Stellenbosch University students who conducted an independent vulnerability assessment of their own and discovered massive fraud (see findings here).
As the result, the National Treasury mandated the agency to perform thorough due diligence and verify applicants with the Department of Home Affairs.
Looking ahead
While SASSA has faced its share of challenges, the early payment for the elderly in January 2025 offers some solace. For those yet to apply, ensure you have all the required documentation and meet the eligibility criteria to take advantage of this vital support system.
For more information, visit your nearest SASSA office or explore the agency’s online services portal at www.https://sassacheck.co.za/ to book an appointment.
