SASSA Older Persons Grant Application

By Tevait Feanle •  Updated: 01/10/25 •  5 min read

SASSA offers a wealth of social services to needy populations in South Africa. For those who are not covered by private pensions and who have no means of support during old age, the SASSA Older Persons Grant can be a critical means to stay housed, fed, and safe. Here’s everything you need to know about the grant application process.

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Requirements for SASSA Older Persons Grant

Here are the requirements to be eligible for the SASSA Older Persons Grant, once called the SASSA Old Age Pension:

As with all SASSA grants, applicants must pass a means test. This takes into account their income, assets, and expenses and is done to ensure the applicant is financially needy enough to qualify for the grant. This means you cannot earn more than R86 280 annually if you are single, rising to R172 560 for married couples. You also cannot own assets worth more than R1 227 600 if you are single or R2 455 200 for married couples.

Applying for SASSA Older Persons Grant

To apply for the SASSA Older Persons Grant, you need to take your original ID to a SASSA Office where you live. Should you not have your ID, you will need the following:

You will complete an application form under the watch of a SASSA officer, who will also interview you regarding your eligibility. When done, keep your receipt as proof of your application.

Should you be sick or too old to easily travel, a family or friend can make the application. They will need a doctor’s note on your behalf explaining why you cannot be present.

Documents Required to Apply for SASSA Older Persons

Alongside the application process we describe above, you will need copies of the following documents:

How Much is the SASSA Old Age Grant?

The means test will also affect how much you receive from the SASSA Old Age Grant. The maximum amount will be R2,080 per month in 2025. Those older than 75 can qualify for up to R2,100 a month.

How is SASSA’s Old Age Grant Payment Calculated?

The SASSA Old Age Grant payment is calculated based on your means test. Here’s a summary of how it is conducted:

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The disposable income figure is then analyzed and compared to SASSA’s means test thresholds. If your disposable income is below the means test, you may qualify for the Old Age Grant. This will also affect the amount you receive and can be adjusted for inflation annually. Remember that the amount is non-taxable!

Benefits of the Old Age Pension

Pensions like the SASSA Older Persons Grant provide financial support to older people who may not have other sources of income. The monthly payment helps to cover basic living expenses like food, shelter, and healthcare. In turn, this helps to improve the quality of life for older people, giving them greater security and stability in their later years. This also helps reduce poverty among older people who are particularly vulnerable due to age, health, and limited earning opportunities.

SASSA Old Age Grant Payment Date

The SASSA Old Age Grant payment date shifts monthly, but will always be the first day in the three-day SASSA payment cycle, and usually mid-week in the first week of the month. So pay attention to this month’s dates, and plan to receive it between the 1st and 8th of each month, usually on a Tuesday or Wednesday.

SASSA Old Age Grant Status

To check the status of your SASSA Old Age Grant application, you can contact the SASSA toll-free helpline on 0800 60 10 11 or visit your nearest SASSA office. You will need to provide your ID number to track the application. SASSA applications can take weeks to months to process, so follow up regularly and be patient.

If your application is approved, you will receive a notification letter from SASSA with the amount of the grant you’ll receive. The grant is usually paid out on a monthly basis, and you should receive the first payment within a few days of being approved. If your application has been rejected, you will also receive a notification letter explaining why. In some cases, you can appeal the decision. 

Now you know how to ensure your SASSA Older Persons Grant Application is a smooth and simple process- good luck!

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