Major SASSA Grants Boost in April 2025 – Check New Payment Amounts and Eligibility Criteria

Millions of South Africans are set to get a financial reprieve with the start of April 2025. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has increased the amount of a number of social assistance grants to help vulnerable sections of society cope with rising inflation and the cost of living.

Whether you’re a senior citizen, parent, carer, or person with a disability, this article will tell you which grants have increased by how much, what the eligibility is, the application process, and how you can avoid fraud.

Why is this hike important?

Inflation in South Africa has reached 5.6% in the last few months. Food, electricity, and transport prices have risen drastically, taking a toll on the common man’s pocket. Keeping this in mind, the government has made changes to the SASSA grants to provide some relief to people.

New grant amount and payment date

Eligibility Criteria

1. Older Persons Grant

• Must be 60 years of age or older.
• Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee.
• Must pass the Means Test:
• Unmarried: Income less than R7,190/month.
• Married: Combined income less than R14,380/month.
• Must not be receiving any other social grants.

2. Disability Grant

• Must be 18 to 59 years of age.
• Must be mentally or physically disabled.
• Must be unable to work for at least 12 months.
• Meet the income test criteria.

3. Child Support Grant

• Must be the primary carer of a child.
• The child is under 18.
• Both must live in South Africa.
• Income should be below the SASSA limit.

4. Foster Care Grant

• A legal foster parent by court order.
• The child should be under 18 years of age.
• There is no income test, but a legal process is necessary.

5. Care Dependency Grant

• The child suffers from a severe and permanent disability.
• Full-time care is needed.
• The caregiver must pass the income test.

6. War Veterans Grant

• Had served before 4 February 1994.
• Age should be over 60 years or be disabled.
• Must pass the income and asset test.

7. Grant-in-Aid

• Already receiving a SASSA grant.
• Full-time care is needed.
• Medical documents certified by a doctor are required.

How to apply? (Application Process)

Gather the required documents:

• South African ID or refugee permit.
• Proof of income.
• Medical or legal documents (if required).

Visit a SASSA office:

• Applications are only accepted in person.
• If you are sick or incapacitated, someone else can apply on your behalf with a doctor’s certificate.

Fill out the form and get confirmation:

• A SASSA officer will assist you.
• Provide accurate information.
• You will receive a receipt and reference number.
• The process can take up to 3 months.

If approved, payment is backdated to the application date.

How to avoid fraud? (Stay Safe from Scams)

• SASSA never charges an application fee.
• Do not share your PIN or personal information with anyone.
• Use only the official website: www.sassa.gov.za
• In case of any doubt, call the anti-fraud helpline: 0800 701 701

Expert Insight

Dr Mandisa Mthembu, a social welfare researcher, says:

• “Grants are not doles — they are lifelines. They help people invest in food, education, and stability. It’s a privilege.”
• So, whether you’re applying for the first time or already receiving a grant, this April 2025 increase could be a new hope for you.

Conclusion

The increase in grant amounts announced by SASSA in April 2025 is not just a government decision, it is a ray of hope for millions of needy people who are struggling with everyday challenges. If you or your family members are eligible for these grants, now is the time to take advantage.

FAQs