The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has introduced new adjustments to its grant payments, offering modest increases to support the most vulnerable members of society.
Starting October 2024, these changes are aimed at ensuring smoother payment processes and addressing key issues faced by beneficiaries, such as access to cash pay points and the safety of transactions.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the changes and how they impact SASSA grant recipients.
Table of Contents
Grant Increases
SASSA has made small increases to select grants, reflecting ongoing efforts to provide financial assistance amid budget constraints. Here’s what recipients can expect:
| Grant Type | Previous Amount | New Amount (Oct 2024) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Pension (Under 75) | R2,180 | R2,190 | R10 |
| Old Age Pension (75+) | R2,200 | R2,210 | R10 |
| Disability Grant | R2,180 | R2,190 | R10 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,180 | R2,190 | R10 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,200 | R2,210 | R10 |
Child Support Grant
Unlike other categories, the Child Support Grant did not receive an increase in this adjustment. However, it continues to be a vital source of financial support for millions of households.
Why Only R10?
The R10 increase may seem minimal, particularly given South Africa’s rising living costs. According to Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA’s spokesperson, the increases are constrained by the R265 billion budget allocated for social grants. Decisions regarding increases are made by the Department of Social Development and the National Treasury, balancing economic conditions and funding limitations.
Payment Process
To improve service delivery and reduce congestion at payment points, SASSA has implemented a staggered payment schedule:
- Dates: Payments are distributed from the 2nd to the 4th of each month.
- Purpose: This ensures that elderly and disabled beneficiaries avoid long queues by separating them from younger, able-bodied recipients.
Rural Accessibility
In response to complaints from beneficiaries in rural areas about the closure of cash pay points, SASSA has:
- Reevaluated Closure Decisions: Working to reopen or find alternatives for areas lacking infrastructure.
- Committed to Localized Services: Ensuring that beneficiaries don’t have to spend excessive amounts—sometimes up to R300—on transportation just to collect their grants.
Bank Cards
To improve safety and convenience, SASSA continues to encourage beneficiaries to use bank cards for transactions. Here’s why:
- Reduced Risk of Theft: Carrying large sums of cash can make recipients vulnerable.
- Convenience: Cards can be used at ATMs and retail stores, allowing beneficiaries to withdraw funds as needed instead of all at once.
The Bigger Picture
SASSA’s modest increases come as part of broader efforts to maintain South Africa’s social welfare system within strict budgetary constraints. While the R10 increase per grant may not significantly change recipients’ financial situations, it reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable citizens despite economic pressures.
Looking ahead, SASSA aims to improve accessibility for rural beneficiaries, ensure safer transactions, and deliver grants efficiently. For many, the hope is that future adjustments will offer more substantial increases to keep up with inflation and rising costs.
FAQs
What are the new SASSA old age pension amounts?
Under 75: R2,190. Aged 75+: R2,210.
Why is the increase only R10?
Budget constraints limit the amount set by National Treasury.
Did the Child Support Grant increase?
No, it remained unchanged in this adjustment.
What is SASSA’s staggered payment schedule?
Payments are made from the 2nd to the 4th monthly to reduce congestion.
Why use a bank card for SASSA payments?
It reduces theft risk and allows safer, convenient transactions.
