The April 2025 SASSA Older Person Grant remains shrouded in uncertainty, leaving more than 4 million elderly beneficiaries in a state of anxiety.
With less than three weeks remaining before the next disbursement, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has yet to provide any official update on payment dates or annual increases for the April 2025 SASSA Older Person Grants.
Challenges Facing Pensioners in 2025
The situation for pensioners reliant on government grants has become increasingly difficult in 2025. The ongoing SASSA/Postbank card migration crisis continues to cause disruptions nationwide.
To date, only 1.2 million out of the 3 million affected beneficiaries have successfully transitioned to new cards. A parliamentary committee recently stated that meeting the Thursday, 20 March 2025 deadline for completing card swaps is “impossible.”
April 2025 SASSA Older Person Grant Payments
Despite these complications, SASSA confirms that while the old cards will expire in two weeks, pensioners will still receive their April 2025 SASSA Older Person Grants. However, they may not be able to withdraw funds as usual. Alternative withdrawal options will be available at South African Post Office branches across the country.
Unfortunately, this poses a major challenge for rural beneficiaries who must travel long distances at significant expense to access their funds. Adding to the urgency, more than 140,000 card swaps must take place daily to meet the migration deadline, yet current processing rates barely reach 10,000 swaps per day.
Will There Be an April 2025 SASSA Grant Increase?
One of the biggest uncertainties is the amount beneficiaries will receive in April 2025. The last confirmed Older Person Grant payments occurred on Tuesday, 4 March 2025, when:
- Pensioners aged 60–74 years received R2,190
- Pensioners aged 75 years and older received R2,210
No official confirmation has been made regarding potential April 2025 SASSA Older Person Grant increases. The final decision will likely depend on Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s upcoming Budget Speech.
However, concerns remain after a government statement announced a revised budget approval, only for DA leader John Steenhuisen to claim that no final agreement had been reached.
Eligibility Criteria for the SASSA Older Person Grant
Since details about potential payment increases and dates remain unclear, here’s what we do know about applying for the SASSA Older Person Grant in 2025:
- Processing time: Applications can take up to three months. However, if approved, the first payment will include backdated funds.
- Age requirement: Applicants must be 60 years or older.
- Means-tested: Applicants must demonstrate financial need to qualify.
- Application process: No online applications are available—applications must be completed in person at a SASSA branch.
- Long queues: Due to high demand, it is advisable to schedule an appointment online before visiting a branch.
Required Documents for SASSA Grant Application
Applicants must bring the following original documents when visiting a SASSA office:
- Proof of marital status (marriage/divorce certificate, if applicable)
- Proof of residence (utility bill, not older than three months)
- Official ID (smart card or green booklet)
- Proof of income or financial dividends
- Details of assets/property valuation
- Declaration of any private pension (if applicable)
- Latest three months’ certified bank statements
- Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) membership details
- Copy of will and liquidation/distribution accounts (if a spouse has passed away in the last five years)
If an applicant cannot apply in person, a family member or friend may assist by providing a doctor’s note explaining the inability to attend. Additionally, all documents must be certified by a commissioner of oaths at a police station.
SASSA Asset and Income Thresholds
To qualify for the April 2025 SASSA Older Person Grant, beneficiaries must meet the following asset and income criteria:
| Category | Income Limit (Monthly) | Income Limit (Annual) | Asset Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Applicants | R8,070 | R96,840 | R1,372,800 |
| Married Couples | R16,140 | R193,680 | R2,745,600 |
If an application is denied, the applicant has 90 days to appeal the decision with the Department of Social Development (DSD).
Updated Contact Information for SASSA
Due to the overwhelming number of inquiries related to Postbank card issues, SASSA’s response time may be slow. Here’s how to get in touch:
- Toll-Free SASSA Line: 0800 601 011
- SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2322
- USSD Postbank Query: 120218*3#
- Email SASSA: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Email Presidency: president@presidency.gov.za
- WhatsApp SASSA: 082 046 8553
With just weeks remaining before the April 2025 SASSA Older Person Grant disbursement, uncertainty still looms. No official confirmation has been given regarding payment dates or increases, and the Postbank card migration crisis further complicates access to funds.
Pensioners, particularly those in rural areas, face logistical and financial hurdles in securing their grants. Until the government finalizes the 2025 budget, pensioners are left in limbo. Applicants are advised to stay updated and ensure their documents are in order to avoid further delays.
FAQs
Will the April 2025 SASSA Older Person Grant be increased?
There is no official confirmation yet. The Finance Minister’s Budget Speech will determine any increase.
What happens if I haven’t switched to the new SASSA card?
Your old card will stop working in March 2025, but you will still receive your grant. You may need to withdraw funds at alternative locations such as the SA Post Office.
Can I apply for the SASSA Older Person Grant online?
No. Applications must be submitted in person at a SASSA branch.
What documents are required for a SASSA grant application?
Applicants need an ID, proof of residence, proof of income, bank statements, marital status documents, and UIF details.