SASSA Big Grant Increase In April – What to know about
SASSA Big Grant Increase In April. South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant beneficiaries are set to receive an increase in their grants starting April 2025. The government has announced adjustments for seven different types of grants, bringing much-needed relief to the nearly 30 million South Africans who rely on SASSA grants for their financial well-being.
This article provides an in-depth look at the upcoming SASSA grant increases, including a detailed breakdown of the new grant amounts, payment dates, and important updates about the SASSA Gold Card replacement.
Why Are SASSA Grants Increasing in April 2025?
The South African government, through SASSA, has allocated nearly R300 billion from tax revenues to support social grant beneficiaries. With the rising cost of living, food prices, and economic challenges, the government recognizes the need to adjust social grants to keep up with inflation.
However, this comes at a time when SASSA is battling fraud, with ongoing efforts to verify the eligibility of grant recipients to ensure that only deserving individuals receive financial assistance.
SASSA Grant Increases in April 2025 – New Payment Amounts
Below is a breakdown of the updated SASSA grant amounts effective from April 2025:
| Grant Type | Current Amount (2024) | New Amount (April 2025) | Increase Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Grant | R2 185 | R2 315 | +R130 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2 205 | R2 335 | +R130 |
| Disability Grant | R2 185 | R2 315 | +R130 |
| Foster Care Grant | R1 180 | R1 250 | +R70 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2 185 | R2 315 | +R130 |
| Child Support Grant | R530 | R560 | +R30 |
| Grant-in-Aid | R530 | R560 | +R30 |
SASSA SRD R370 Grant Remains Unchanged
The Special Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, also known as the R370 SRD grant, will remain the same until at least March 2026. While many South Africans were hoping for an increase, the government has not yet announced any adjustments to this particular grant.
SASSA Grant Payment Dates for April 2025
If you are a SASSA grant beneficiary, it is important to be aware of when your increased payments will be made. Below is a breakdown of payment dates for April 2025:
| Grant Type | Payment Date (April 2025) |
|---|---|
| Old Age Grant | 3rd April 2025 |
| Disability Grant | 4th April 2025 |
| All Other Grants | 5th April 2025 |
How to Receive Your SASSA Grant
Beneficiaries can receive their SASSA grants in the following ways:
- Direct Bank Deposit (To a bank account of their choice)
- Postbank Black Card (New replacement for SASSA Gold Cards)
- Cash Collection at designated Post Offices and retailers such as:
- Shoprite
- Checkers
- Pick n Pay
- Boxer
- Spar
- Usave
End of SASSA Gold Cards – Transition to Postbank Black Cards
One of the biggest changes for SASSA beneficiaries is the replacement of SASSA Gold Cards with Postbank Black Cards.
Why Are SASSA Gold Cards Being Phased Out?
The SASSA Gold Cards, previously used by millions of grant recipients, have reached their expiry date. The South African government, through Postbank, has introduced the Postbank Black Card to replace the old Gold Cards.
Who Needs to Get a Postbank Black Card?
As of March 2025, around 3 million beneficiaries had not yet switched to the new Postbank Black Card. If you still have a SASSA Gold Card, it is important to collect your new Postbank Black Card as soon as possible to avoid any delays in receiving your grant.
Where Can You Collect Your Postbank Black Card?
You can collect your new Postbank Black Card at the following locations:
- Post Office branches
- Shoprite
- Checkers
- Pick n Pay
- Boxer
- Spar
- Usave
Can You Still Receive Your Grant Without a Black Card?
Yes! SASSA beneficiaries who have not yet collected their Postbank Black Card can still access their grants using their ID document at Post Offices and selected retailers.
How to Check Your SASSA Grant Balance
Once you receive your SASSA grant, it is important to track your balance to manage your funds effectively. Here are some ways to check your SASSA grant balance:
- Through the SASSA Website
- Visit www.sassa.gov.za
- Enter your ID number and phone number
- Click on “Check Balance”
- Via USSD Code (Cellphone)
- Dial 1203210# or 12069277#
- Follow the on-screen prompts
- Your balance will be displayed
- Using WhatsApp
- Save the SASSA WhatsApp Number: 082 046 8553
- Send a message saying “SASSA”
- Follow the instructions to check your balance
- At an ATM
- If you have a Postbank Black Card, you can check your balance at any ATM
How to Apply for a SASSA Grant
If you are not yet a SASSA grant beneficiary but believe you qualify, follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
To qualify for SASSA grants, you must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Meet the income threshold for the specific grant
- Provide necessary documentation (ID, proof of income, medical reports, etc.)
Step 2: Apply Online or In-Person
- Online Application: Visit www.sassa.gov.za
- In-Person Application: Visit your nearest SASSA office
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
- Certified ID copy
- Proof of income (if applicable)
- Medical assessment reports (for disability grants)
- Proof of guardianship (for child grants)
Step 4: Wait for Approval
- You will receive an SMS notification about the status of your application.
- If approved, you will start receiving your SASSA grant based on the next available payment cycle.
Conclusion
The SASSA grant increases in April 2025 bring much-needed relief to millions of South Africans. With adjustments to seven different grants, beneficiaries will receive higher payments to help with the increasing cost of living.
