Starting May 1, 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) rolled out revised social grant amounts to provide better financial support to low-income and vulnerable populations. As inflation and living expenses climb across South Africa, these updated grants aim to reduce poverty and cushion millions of citizens against economic hardship. These changes are part of the government’s broader plan to improve social protection and promote financial inclusion.
Breakdown of May 2025 SASSA Grant Increases
SASSA implemented significant increases across all major social grant types. Here is a comprehensive look at the revised amounts:
| Grant Type | May 2025 Increase | New Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Older Persons (60-74 yrs) | R130 | R2,315 |
| Older Persons (75+ yrs) | R135 | R2,335 |
| Disability Grant | R130 | R2,315 |
| War Veterans Grant | R130 | R2,315 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R130 | R2,315 |
| Foster Care Grant | R70 | R1,250 |
| Child Support Grant | R30 | R560 |
| SRD (Social Relief) Grant | R20 | R370 |
These adjustments were effective immediately and aim to improve access to essential services, food, and healthcare for beneficiaries.
Support for Children and Special Needs Strengthened
Grants that specifically support children and caregivers have also been raised to reflect rising household costs. The Foster Care Grant now stands at R1,250 per child per month, while the Child Support Grant has reached R560. These changes help caregivers cover education, food, and healthcare needs. SASSA emphasized the importance of these adjustments in safeguarding child welfare and reducing child poverty.
Long-Awaited SRD Grant Increase Implemented
For the first time in several years, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant was raised. Though the R20 increase to R370 may seem small, it represents the government’s intention to incrementally improve support for unemployed individuals and those experiencing temporary financial hardship. The SRD Grant remains a critical lifeline for many who have no other source of income.
May 2025 Grant Payment Schedule
SASSA disbursed the revised grant payments early in May. The schedule was as follows:
- Older Persons Grant: Thursday, May 3, 2025
- Disability Grant: Friday, May 4, 2025
- Children’s Grants (Foster and Child Support): Monday, May 5, 2025
Beneficiaries were advised to collect their grants promptly and ensure their banking and personal details were up to date to avoid payment delays.
October 2025: Another Round of Increases Ahead
In a phased approach to improving financial assistance, SASSA will introduce additional grant increases in October 2025:
- Older Persons (60-74): R2,325 (+R10)
- Older Persons (75+): R2,345 (+R10)
- Disability Grant: R2,325 (+R10)
- War Veterans & Care Dependency Grants: R2,325 (+R10)
Child Support and Foster Care Grants will remain unchanged in October.
Clarification on “Double Payments” Myth
Some recipients believed they were receiving double grants in May. However, SASSA clarified that this is not the case. The confusion likely stemmed from the two-phased increase structure: one in May and another in October. Each increase is a scheduled and independent adjustment, not a duplication of monthly payments.
Budget Expectations vs. Final Disbursements
Initial projections by the National Treasury suggested higher grant increases. However, fiscal constraints limited the final amounts implemented. This discrepancy has drawn criticism from social justice groups, urging better coordination between financial planning and policy execution to maintain public trust.
Mandatory Transition to New SASSA Cards
Beneficiaries using the old SASSA Gold Cards must switch to the new Postbank Black Cards. Originally set to end in March, the transition deadline has been extended to June 2025 to accommodate those who haven’t yet made the switch. The new cards are essential for uninterrupted access to future payments.
Moving Toward a More Inclusive Financial System
The grant increases reflect South Africa’s continued effort to reduce inequality and improve economic security for its most vulnerable citizens. While the changes may not resolve all financial pressures, they represent meaningful progress toward broader financial inclusion and social support. Beneficiaries are encouraged to remain informed, ensure their records are up to date, and take note of upcoming changes and payment schedules.
FAQs
What are the new grant amounts as of May 2025?
All major grants have been increased. Older Persons (60-74) now receive R2,315, and those aged 75+ get R2,335. Disability, War Veterans, and Care Dependency Grants are now R2,315. Child Support is R560, and Foster Care is R1,250. The SRD Grant is R370.
When will the next grant increase happen?
The next increase will be in October 2025, with most grants receiving an additional R10. Child Support and Foster Care Grants will remain unchanged.
Has the SRD Grant amount changed?
Yes, it increased by R20 in May 2025, bringing the total to R370 per month.
Are beneficiaries receiving double payments?
No, the confusion is due to two planned increases (May and October). Each increase is a separate adjustment.
What is the new SASSA card, and when is the deadline to switch?
Beneficiaries must transition to the new Postbank Black Card by June 2025 to continue receiving payments.
For More Information Click Here