The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially dismissed widespread rumours suggesting that grant recipients — including old-age pensioners — will receive double payments in June 2025.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 14, just one day after NOWinSA published this widely read article, the agency confirmed that no such payout has been announced.
“We appeal to our beneficiaries not to expect any double payment in June as stated in various fake news reports, particularly on social media platforms,” said Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA national spokesperson.
SASSA reiterated that the only official grant increases were announced by the Minister of Finance during the 2025 Budget Speech, which took effect in April. The next adjustment is scheduled for October 2025.
Reject these lies with the contempt they deserve’
According to the statement, the false claims — which circulated via WhatsApp and Facebook — also alleged that “new rules could affect your pension from 10 June.” Some posts even listed provincial rollout dates.
“These reports are untrue and should be rejected with the contempt they deserve,” said Letsatsi.
SASSA urged beneficiaries to only trust information from credible sources, such as:
Verification process underway — but not for everyone
SASSA clarified that its current verification process, launched as part of the May 2025 payment run, applies only to certain grant recipients. These include:
- Individuals using non-standard identification, i.e., not the 13-digit SA ID;
- Recipients flagged by the bulk means test — typically due to unreported income reflected in secondary bank accounts.
For recipients concerned about upcoming May or June payments—and what to do if grants are withheld—read our guide:
SASSA May Grant Payment Delays: Who’s Affected and What To Do.
Grants are a lifeline — fake news causes harm
SASSA stressed that social grants remain the primary source of income for over 19 million South Africans, particularly the elderly and vulnerable.
“When people create and share false information, it creates unwarranted panic and stress,” SASSA said, calling on the public to be vigilant and verify before sharing.
For ongoing updates, follow SASSA on:
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