SASSA Grant Amounts Increase in October 2025

Are you struggling to cover daily expenses with your SASSA grant? Starting October 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) will raise grant amounts to help ease financial pressures for millions of South Africans.

This small but vital increase, announced by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, aims to support vulnerable groups against rising costs. Let’s explore the details of this update, including new amounts, payment dates, and its impact on beneficiaries.

What Are the New SASSA Grant Amounts for October 2025?

The South African Social Security Agency adjusts grant amounts twice yearly to keep up with economic changes. In October 2025, most grants will increase by R10, following a larger adjustment in April 2025. Below are the updated amounts for key grants:

• Old-Age Grant (60–74 years): Increases from R2,310 to R2,320.
• Old-Age Grant (75+ years): Rises from R2,330 to R2,340.
• War Veterans Grant: Moves from R2,330 to R2,340.
• Disability Grant: Goes from R2,310 to R2,320.
• Care Dependency Grant: Increases from R2,310 to R2,320.
• Child Support Grant: Stays at R560 (no change in October).
• Foster Care Grant: Remains at R1,250 (no change in October).

These changes build on the April 2025 increases, where most grants rose by R120, and Child Support and Foster Care Grants increased by R30 and R70, respectively. The October adjustment, though smaller, ensures continued support for rising living costs.

When Will Beneficiaries Receive These Increased Payments?

SASSA follows a fixed payment schedule to ensure timely delivery. For October 2025, payments are set as follows:

• Old-Age Grants: Paid on 2 October 2025.
• Disability Grants: Disbursed on 3 October 2025.
• Children’s Grants (including Child Support and Foster Care): Paid on 6 October 2025.

According to SASSA CEO Themba Matlou, the agency is fully prepared to process these payments without delays. Beneficiaries can expect funds in their accounts or at designated payment points, such as Post Office branches or bank accounts, based on their chosen method.

Why Do These Increases Matter?

The R10 increase may seem small, but it plays a big role for South Africans relying on grants. In 2024, Statistics South Africa reported that inflation averaged 5.2%, raising the cost of essentials like food, transport, and utilities. For example, a loaf of bread cost around R20 in 2024, and small increases in grants help cover such expenses.

For pensioners, disabled individuals, and caregivers, this boost offers relief. A pensioner receiving the Old-Age Grant can now afford an extra meal or transport fare each month. Similarly, the Care Dependency Grant helps parents of children with disabilities manage medical or caregiving costs. These adjustments reflect the South African government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups, as emphasized by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana during the 2025/26 Budget Speech.

How Do SASSA Grants Support South Africans?

SASSA manages grants for over 18 million beneficiaries, including the elderly, disabled, and families with children. These payments act as a safety net, reducing poverty and improving access to basic needs. For instance:

• Old-Age Grants support 3.8 million elderly South Africans, helping them afford food, housing, and healthcare.
• Disability Grants assist 1.1 million individuals with permanent or temporary disabilities, covering medical expenses and daily needs.
• Child Support Grants reach 13 million children, ensuring access to nutrition and education.

The October 2025 increase, though modest, adds to the R250 billion allocated annually to social grants, as outlined in the 2025/26 Budget Speech. This funding underscores the government’s focus on easing economic hardship for low-income households.

How Can Beneficiaries Access Their Grants?

SASSA offers multiple ways to receive grants, making access easy and secure:

• Bank Accounts: Funds are deposited directly, allowing withdrawals at ATMs or in-store purchases.
• Post Office: Beneficiaries can collect cash at local branches, such as South African Post Office locations.
• Mobile Payments: Some areas offer mobile cash-out options for convenience.

To avoid issues, SASSA advises beneficiaries to verify their details, like ID numbers and contact information, at local offices. For support, contact the SASSA toll-free line at 0800 60 10 11 or email [email protected]. SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi encourages beneficiaries to report any payment delays promptly.

What Challenges Do Beneficiaries Face?

Despite SASSA’s efforts, some beneficiaries face hurdles:

• Payment Delays: Technical issues or incorrect details can delay funds. Always double-check your banking information.
• Fraud Risks: Scammers may target grant recipients. SASSA never asks for personal details via unsolicited calls or messages.
• Rising Costs: Inflation often outpaces grant increases, making it hard to cover all expenses.

To address these, SASSA has improved its systems, with CEO Themba Matlou confirming smooth operations for October 2025. Beneficiaries should stay vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately.

How Do These Increases Compare to Past Adjustments?

The October 2025 increase follows a pattern of small mid-year adjustments. In October 2024, most grants rose by R10, while April 2025 saw larger increases (e.g., R120 for Old-Age and Disability Grants). Historically, SASSA aligns adjustments with inflation and budget constraints. For example:

• In 2023, the Child Support Grant increased by R20, from R510 to R530.
• The Old-Age Grant rose by R90 in April 2024, reflecting higher inflation that year.

While the R10 increase in October 2025 is smaller, it complements the earlier April boost, ensuring steady support.

What’s Next for SASSA Beneficiaries?

Looking ahead, SASSA plans to maintain regular increases, as announced in the 2025/26 Budget Speech. Beneficiaries can expect another adjustment in April 2026, though details are not yet available. To stay informed:

• Check SASSA’s official website (www.sassa.gov.za) for updates.
• Visit local SASSA offices for personalized assistance.
• Follow trusted news sources for budget announcements.

The South African government and SASSA remain committed to supporting vulnerable citizens, with grants forming a key part of the National Development Plan to reduce poverty by 2030.

Final Thoughts

The SASSA grant increase in October 2025 offers much-needed relief for millions of South Africans. While the R10 boost is modest, it helps cover rising costs for essentials like food and transport. With clear payment dates and reliable systems, SASSA ensures beneficiaries receive funds on time. For more details, contact SASSA at 0800 60 10 11 or visit www.sassa.gov.za. Stay informed and make the most of your grant to ease financial pressures.