SASSA Grant Increase 2026 : In 2026, social assistance grants will increase for millions of South African beneficiaries, providing essential support during ongoing inflation. The increase will enable at-risk households to meet their vital requirements, which face difficulties from rising food and electricity and transport costs.
Social grants remain one of the most important sources of income for pensioners, people with disabilities, caregivers, and low-income households across the country.
New Grant Amounts After The Increase
The updated monthly payments for 2026 are estimated as follows:
- Older Persons Grant (60–74 years): R2,315
- Older Persons Grant (75+ years): R2,335
- Disability Grant: R2,315
- War Veterans Grant: R2,315
- Care Dependency Grant: R2,315
- Child Support Grant: R560
- Foster Care Grant: R1,250
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD): R370
For most families the small increases in their earnings provide essential support which allows them to meet their fundamental requirements.
Why The Increase Matters
Grant amounts receive annual adjustments which depend on inflation and current economic conditions. The adjustments become essential because low-income households experience the most damage from current price increases which affect essential expenses like groceries and rent and utilities.
The grant serves as the primary income source for elderly citizens. The payment provides support for multiple family members who require financial help which allows one person to maintain an entire family.
Payment Schedule And How Funds Are Distributed
The Social Assistance South African system uses a staggered payment method to manage capacity limits at both pay centers and automatic teller machines. The payment schedule starts with
- Older Persons Grants which receive their payments first
- Disability Grants which receive their payments next
- All remaining grants including Children’s Grants which receive their payments last
The beneficiaries who get their payments through bank account transfers or SASSA cards can use their funds immediately after the funds become available. There is no need to withdraw money on the first day.
Who Qualifies For The Increased Grants
The eligibility requirements for this program have not changed according to their existing standards. Applicants must meet criteria such as:
- Being a South African citizen, permanent resident, or qualifying refugee
- Passing the income and asset means test
- Meeting age requirements for specific grants
- Undergoing medical assessments for disability-related grants
The Older Persons Grant requires applicants to reach the age of 60 years or older before they can apply.
Important Reminders For Beneficiaries
The authorities continue their work to confirm recipient identities while protecting against fraud and ensuring that only genuine cases receive support. Beneficiaries should maintain current records of their personal information together with their contact numbers and banking account information to ensure that their payments continue without interruption.
Also Read: SASSA Payment Dates for March 2026 – Full Grant Schedule