Here is the March 2025 SASSA Old-Age grant update and all you need to know.
South African pensioners can breathe a sigh of relief! The March 2025 SASSA Old-Age Grants will be paid on schedule. Despite President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cryptic remarks in the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on February 6, 2025, existing grants remain secure for now.
The President hinted at expanding the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant into a future Basic Income Grant (BIG), sparking concerns about budget constraints. However, current old-age grants remain unaffected.
March 2025 SASSA Old-Age grant payment dates and amounts
Mark your calendar! The March 2025 SASSA Old-Age Grants will be disbursed on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Payment amounts remain unchanged:
Ages 60 to 74: R2,190
Ages 75 and older: R2,210
New applicants should note that processing can take up to three months. However, once approved, SASSA will provide backdated payments from the date of application.
Will SASSA Old-Age grants increase in April 2025?
President Ramaphosa’s SONA failed to confirm any upcoming increases for April 2025. His vision to expand social welfare through a BIG grant aligns with a recent High Court ruling declaring SRD grant exclusions unlawful. This ruling forces the Department of Social Development (DSD) to consult with the National Treasury on increasing SRD grants by May 2025. If implemented, it could cost taxpayers an extra R35 billion, possibly affecting future old-age grant adjustments.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Budget Speech on February 19, 2025, remains the last hope for clarity on potential grant increases.
Eligibility requirements for March 2025 SASSA Old-Age grants
To qualify, applicants must:
Be 60 years or older.
Be a South African citizen or legal resident.
Pass an income and asset means test.
Income and Asset Limits:
Single applicants: Income must not exceed R8,070/month (R96,840/year), with assets under R1,372,800.
Married applicants: Combined income must not exceed R16,140/month (R193,680/year), with assets under R2,745,600.
How to apply for the grants
Unlike other government services, SASSA does not accept online applications. You must visit a SASSA office in person. Long queues are common, but you can schedule an appointment online before heading to a branch.
Required Documents:
Valid ID (smart card or green booklet)
Proof of residence (utility bill with your name)
Marital status documents
Proof of income and assets (bank statements, UIF documents, pension details, etc.)
If you’re unable to apply in person, a trusted friend or family member can assist you with a doctor’s letter explaining your situation.
What if your application is denied?
Applicants have 90 days to appeal a rejected application through the Department of Social Development (DSD). Once approved, you will not need to reapply for the grant, but SASSA may periodically review your status. You’ll receive three months’ written notice if a review is scheduled.
Contact SASSA for Assistance
Need help? Reach out to SASSA directly:
Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 601 011
Head Office: 012 400 2322
Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Presidency Email: president@presidency.gov.za
With 45% of South Africa’s population depending on SASSA grants, delays and inefficiencies remain a challenge. However, knowing the process and staying informed will help ensure you receive your benefits on time.
Stay tuned with The South African as the March 2025 SASSA Old-Age grant update is here.
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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