Before we get to SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025, let’s quickly run through the latest South African Social Security Agency updates. Eight weeks and counting, and the agency is yet to announce official grant increases for April 2025. It’s no wonder this has been overlooked when you appreciate the challenges Minister Tolashe is dealing with so far in 2025.
She’s gone public admonishing a lack of reliable senior management after she had to suspend the SASSA CEO late last year. This has only been compounded by a High Court ruling last week stating regulations have been ‘unlawfully’ excluding SASSA SRD applicants since 2023. Not exactly smooth sailing so far in 2025 for the embattled agency.
SASSA OLDER PERSON GRANTS IN FEBRUARY 2025
Furthermore, in October 2024, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana approved a R2.7-billion increase in social welfare spending for the current fiscal year. We believe this means a roughly 5% increase to SASSA grants across the board. And you can read all about our estimated outlook for the year’s increases HERE.
Nevertheless, until that April 2025 increase is approved, it will be business as usual for SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025. Unlike last month, when Older Person grants were disbursed some four-days earlier than usual, February sees everything return to normal. Although, the occurrence did leave readers asking why the agency cannot move grant payments back to the 1st of every month, like it used to before the COVID-19 pandemic.
NO LONGER FIRST OF THE MONTH
That said, SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025 will go ahead on Tuesday 4 February 2025. Likewise, the grant amounts are unchanged. Therefore, those aged from 60 to 74 will receive R2 190 and anyone aged 75 and older is paid R2 210. If you’re hoping to apply now for SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025, you should note that applications take upwards of three months to process. However, if you patiently wait that period and are successful, you will receive backdated funds to the time of your application.
Furthermore, new applicants should keep in mind that SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025 are asset and means tested. This is so financial support is provided only to those who really need it. Therefore, when you apply, you must prove to the agency that you’re sufficiently underprivileged to qualify. So, let’s go through the qualifying criteria here …
ASSET AND MEANS TESTED ONLY
SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025 are only applicable to residents who are 60 years of age or older. Note the term ‘residents’ rather than ‘citizens’, because SASSA looks after all legal residents. There are no online application forms available. All applications for SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025 must be made in-person at a SASSA office, with an official present to oversee
While still not perfect, a SASSA online services portal allows you to make an appointment online first – click HERE to do so. You do this to book a time slot before you present your documents and biometric data in-person. Make sure you have the following with you at your in-person application …
WHAT TO BRING ALONG
- Official bar-coded ID – smart card or green booklet.
- Documents proving your marital status.
- Proof of residence (a utility bill with your name on it).
- Confirmation of your proof of income and/or financial dividends.
- Any relevant information regarding your assets, valuation of property you own.
- Declaration of private pension in your name (if applicable).
- Valid three months’ statements certified by your bank (not more than three months old).
- Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) membership book, or discharge certificate from your previous job.
- Copy of your will, first and final liquidation and distribution accounts if your spouse has passed away in the last five years.
- Note that SASSA, the banks and Department of Home Affairs must cross-reference all financial and identity data before approval.
HOW TO QUALIFY FOR A SASSA GRANT
If you’re deemed to be of sufficient means because you have a private pension, personal savings and/or assets, applicants for SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025 will not be approved. That is because SASSA is compelled by the National Treasury to enforce the following income and asset limits:
- Income limit of R8 070 per month (R96 840 per year) if single.
- Income limit of R16 140 per month (R193 680 per year) if married.
- Total value of your assets must not exceed R1 372 800 if single.
- Total value of your assets must not be higher than R2 745 600 if married.
Furthermore, SASSA does allow a family member or friend to help with your application. You will need to produce a letter from your doctor explaining why you cannot apply yourself. And all of the above documentation must be taken to a police station and certified by a commissioner of oaths. Finally, if your SASSA Older Person grants in February 2025 are denied, you have 90 days to appeal the decision with the DSD by clicking HERE .
While SASSA is trying its best to service nearly 45% of the population, it is still notoriously difficult to get hold of. But you can attempt to contact them like so for any queries:
- SASSA toll-free line: 0800 601 011
- Head Office of SASSA: 012 400 2322
- Email SASSA: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Or email: president@presidency.gov.za
Also note that you will never have to reapply for SASSA Old-Age Grants once approved. However, the agency can choose to review your status at any time. This is to confirm you have not misrepresented yourself in your initial application. And to check that your means have not suddenly improved since you first applied. You need to receive three-months’ notice in writing before the review takes place.
- SASSA Old-Age Grants for March will take place on Tuesday 4 March 2025.
*Payments can take 2-3 days to reflect in your bank account.
CAN WE HELP WITH YOUR SASSA OLDER PERSON GRANT?
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