In a country where more than half the population lives below the poverty line and unemployment has climbed to 32.9%, South Africa’s SASSA grants continue to be a crucial support system. For August 2025, SASSA has increased certain grant payments and issued new compliance warnings. These grants help millions afford essentials like food, shelter, and healthcare.
Let’s break down everything you need to know: who gets more money, when it’s being paid, and how to avoid losing your grant due to non-compliance.
Overview
SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) provides monthly financial assistance to eligible citizens, especially older people, people with disabilities, and families in financial need. The program aims to ensure dignity, basic survival, and protection against poverty.
August 2025 Grant Increases
Back in April 2025, SASSA increased the value of several grants, and a further rise is scheduled for October. These changes were made in response to inflation, which stood at 5.2% earlier this year.
Grant Amounts
| Grant Type | April 2025 Amount | October 2025 Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Elderly (60–74 yrs) | R2,180 | R2,190 |
| Elderly (75+ yrs) | R2,200 | R2,210 |
| Disability Grant | R2,180 | R2,190 |
| Grant-in-Aid | R560 | No change |
| Child Support Grant | R510 | No change |
| Foster Child Grant | R1,120 | No change |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,180 | No change |
| SRD Grant | R370 | No change |
Example: A 68-year-old beneficiary now receives R2,180/month, increasing to R2,190 from October.
August 2025 Payment Dates
SASSA spreads payments over a few days to reduce long lines at banks and retail pay points.
| Grant Type | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | Tuesday, 5 August |
| Disability Grant | Wednesday, 6 August |
| Children’s Grants | Thursday, 7 August |
| SRD R370 Grant | Between 24–30 August (status online) |
Funds remain in your account until you withdraw them, so there’s no need to rush.
Why SASSA is Tightening Rules
SASSA is stepping up compliance checks to prevent fraud and ensure only eligible people receive support. On July 14, 2025, SASSA CEO Themba Matlu warned that any failure to update income, asset, or status changes could result in immediate suspension or permanent loss of the grant.
Reasons for stricter controls:
- National Treasury Accountability: R284.7 billion has been allocated for 2025/26.
- Fraud Detection: In June 2025, 210,000 people were found to have hidden additional income.
- Legal Risk: Under the Social Assistance Act, beneficiaries who misreport info can be forced to repay funds.
Income and Asset Thresholds (2025)
If you go over these limits, your grant may be delayed or canceled:
| Grant Type | Single (Yearly) | Married (Yearly) |
|---|---|---|
| Elderly/Disability | R29,880 | R58,595 |
| Child Support | R67,400 | R134,800 |
| Care Dependency | R277,250 | R554,500 |
| SRD Grant | R624/month | N/A |
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Warning Notice: SMS or letter requesting documents within 30 days
- Payment Delays: Funds withheld during investigation
- Termination: Grant canceled if no response
- Debt Collection: Overpaid money must be returned
In June 2025 alone, 210,000 people had payments withheld due to income misreporting.
Stay Compliant – Here’s How
- Update Personal Details: ID, address, phone number, bank info
- Report Income Changes: New job, spouse’s income, inheritance
- Respond to Review Notices: Submit documents within 30 days
- Check Payment Status: At sassa-status.web.za or via WhatsApp
- Ask for Help: SASSA helpline 0800 60 10 11 or WhatsApp 082 046 8553
Required Documents
- Valid SA ID or smart card
- Proof of residence (utility bill, lease, or affidavit)
- Proof of income (bank statement or payslip)
- Medical report (Disability grants, no older than 3 months)
Challenges on the Ground
Despite digital improvements, many beneficiaries face hurdles:
- Poor internet access in rural areas
- Difficulty accessing medical assessments or smart IDs
- Long travel distances to SASSA offices
- Misinformation and fraud
- Language barriers
SASSA is tackling these with mobile units, NGO partnerships (like Black Sash), and public Wi-Fi at community centers.
Who’s Helping?
- Government: Budget updates and streamlined policies
- SASSA: Improved databases, mobile clinics, compliance checks
- NGOs: Application support and legal aid
- Retailers: Serve as grant payout points
- Media: Spread accurate info via @OfficialSASSA
FAQs
When is the elderly grant paid in August 2025?
It’s scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
What is the SRD grant amount for August?
It remains R370 per month as of August 2025.
What happens if I hide my income from SASSA?
Your grant may be suspended or permanently terminated.
How much can I earn to qualify for SASSA?
For elderly or disability grants, max R2,495/month (single).
Where can I collect my SASSA grant?
From ATMs, Postbank, or retailers like Shoprite and Boxer.
