Millions of South Africans rely on social grants for financial support. With the 2025 social grant increase set to take effect, many beneficiaries are eager to know how much they will receive and whether they still qualify for assistance.
If you depend on SASSA grants, this article will guide you through the latest increases, eligibility criteria, and application process for social grants in 2025.
1. Social Grant Increase in 2025 – What You Need to Know
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) distributes grants to millions of people, including pensioners, people with disabilities, caregivers, and unemployed individuals. Every year, these grants are adjusted to keep up with inflation.
In 2025, the government has announced a new increase in social grants to provide more relief to beneficiaries. Here’s how much each grant is expected to increase:
Updated SASSA Grant Payments for 2025
Grant Type | Current Amount (2024) | New Amount (2025) | Increase |
---|---|---|---|
Old Age Pension (60-74 years) | R2,180 | R2,270 | +R90 |
Old Age Pension (75+ years) | R2,200 | R2,290 | +R90 |
Disability Grant | R2,180 | R2,270 | +R90 |
Child Support Grant | R510 | R530 | +R20 |
Foster Care Grant | R1,130 | R1,190 | +R60 |
Care Dependency Grant | R2,180 | R2,270 | +R90 |
Grant-in-Aid | R510 | R530 | +R20 |
War Veterans Grant | R2,200 | R2,290 | +R90 |
SRD (Social Relief of Distress) Grant | R350 | R370 | +R20 |
🔹 Important: These amounts are based on government projections and may still be adjusted before final implementation.

[also_read id=”469″]
2. Who Qualifies for the 2025 Social Grant Increase?
Not everyone automatically qualifies for a social grant or its increase. Each grant has specific eligibility requirements, which include age, income level, residency status, and disability status.
Eligibility Criteria for Major Social Grants
🔹 Old Age Pension Grant
✔️ Must be 60 years or older
✔️ Annual income limit: Not exceeding R96,840 (single) or R193,680 (married)
✔️ Must not receive another social grant
🔹 Disability Grant
✔️ Must be between 18 and 59 years old
✔️ Medically certified disability
✔️ Annual income limit: R96,840 (single) or R193,680 (married)
🔹 Child Support Grant
✔️ Child must be under 18 years old
✔️ Primary caregiver must earn less than R60,000 per year (single) or R120,000 (married)
🔹 Foster Care Grant
✔️ Child must be placed in foster care by a court order
🔹 Care Dependency Grant
✔️ For children with severe disabilities requiring full-time care
✔️ Parents/caregivers must meet financial eligibility criteria
🔹 SRD R350 Grant
✔️ Unemployed individuals with no other source of income
✔️ Must be 18-59 years old
✔️ South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
3. How to Apply for the 2025 Social Grant
If you believe you qualify for a SASSA grant, follow these steps to apply or update your information for the 2025 increase.

How to Apply for a Social Grant in 2025
1️⃣ Visit a SASSA Office – Find your nearest SASSA branch and apply in person.
2️⃣ Apply Online – Go to the official SASSA website to submit an application digitally.
3️⃣ Provide Required Documents – This includes:
- South African ID book or smart card
- Proof of income and expenses
- Medical report (if applying for disability grants)
- Court order (for foster care grants)
4️⃣ Wait for Approval – SASSA will review your application and notify you if approved.
5️⃣ Receive Your Grant – Payments are made via bank deposit, post office collection, or retailers like Pick n Pay, Boxer, and Shoprite.
[also_read id=”466″]
4. When Will the 2025 Social Grant Increases Take Effect?
The new grant amounts are expected to be implemented in early 2025, with exact dates to be confirmed by SASSA and the South African government.
Beneficiaries should check the SASSA website or local offices for official payment dates.
Conclusion
The 2025 social grant increase is great news for millions of South Africans who rely on SASSA payments. Whether you receive a pension, disability, or child support grant, you can expect a higher payout to help with rising living costs.
If you are not yet a beneficiary but think you qualify, make sure to apply early and stay updated on official announcements from SASSA to ensure you receive your grant on time.
💰 Stay informed, check your eligibility, and secure your social grant for 2025!
FAQs
1. What are the new grant amounts for 2025?
The government has announced the following monthly increases for social grants:
Old Age and Disability Grants: Increased by R130, bringing the total to R2,180 per month.
War Veterans Grant: Increased by R130, now totaling R2,180 per month.
Foster Care Grant: Increased by R70, making it R1,180 per month.
Care Dependency Grant: Increased by R130, totaling R2,180 per month.
Child Support Grant: Increased by R30, now R520 per month.
Grant-in-Aid: Increased by R30, bringing it to R480 per month.
Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant: Increased to R370 per month and extended until March 2026.
2. Who is eligible for the Old Age Grant?
To qualify for the Old Age Grant, applicants must:
Be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees.
Be 60 years of age or older.
Not be receiving any other social grant for themselves.
Not be cared for in a state institution.
Meet the means test requirements, with annual income not exceeding R86,280 if single or R172,560 if married.
3. What are the criteria for the Disability Grant?
Applicants for the Disability Grant must:
Be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees.
Be between 18 and 59 years old.
Submit a medical assessment report confirming the disability.
Have a disability that renders them unable to work for at least 12 months.
Not refuse employment or rehabilitation opportunities.
Meet the means test requirements, with annual income not exceeding R86,280 if single or R172,560 if married.