The year 2023 is almost over, and what better way to end it than knowing when you will be getting your SASSA grant payments for the last time this year? To make things easier for all SASSA beneficiaries, in this article we cover SASSA grant payment dates for December 2023.
It is important to know not just when, but also where you can safely collect your grants this festive season. Get ready to collect your grant during these period.
SASSA Grant Payment Dates for December 2023
Older Person’s Grant
- Date: Friday, 1 December 2023
- Amount: R2,080
Disability Grant
- Date: Monday, 4 December 2023
- Amount: R1,990
Child Support Grant
- Date: Tuesday, 5 December 2023
- Amount: R500 per child
COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R350 Grant
- Dates: Monday, 18 December – Friday, 22 December 2023
- Amount: R350
Find out if you are approved for SRD R350 Grant for December 2023: Check your SASSA Status Now
Safe Places to Collect Your SASSA Grants:
In order to enjoy your benefits this December, consider collecting your grants at these safe locations:
1. Post Office
The South African Post Office serves as a popular location for collecting SASSA grants, where they have implemented various safety protocols to ensure a well-organized collection process. It is recommended to visit during off-peak hours to minimize waiting times and adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Safety Tips
- Avoid Non-Official Assistance: Be cautious of strangers offering assistance. Do not ask for or accept help from anyone who is not an employee or official from SASSA or the South African Post Office.
- Use Official Queues and Counters: Always stay in official queues and approach only the designated counters for transactions.
- Secure Personal Information: Be discreet when handling personal information and cash. Ensure your ID, SASSA card, and any other sensitive information are not visible to others.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice any unusual behavior or potential security threats, report them to the Post Office staff or security personnel immediately.
2. Bank ATMs
You can withdraw your grant from ATMs. ATMs inside malls or bank premises are generally considered more secure.
Safety Tips
- Check for Tampering: Examine the ATM for any unusual devices attached to it, which could indicate skimming devices used to steal card information.
- Observe ATM Surroundings: Before using an ATM, look around for any suspicious individuals or activities. Avoid ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas.
- Shield Your PIN: Always cover the keypad while typing your PIN to prevent shoulder surfers from seeing it.
- After Collection: Once you have collected your grant, avoid displaying the cash publicly and secure it immediately.
- Safety in Numbers: If possible, go with a friend or family member.
- Avoid Carrying Large Sums: Withdraw only the amount you need to reduce the risk of theft
3. Retail Stores
Certain retail stores allow you to withdraw your grant at their cash points. Specific retail stores like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Boxer, Checkers, and USave offer the convenience of withdrawing your grant at their in-store cash points. These locations can be safer as they are often inside busy shopping areas and have security measures in place.
Safety Tips
- Shop Directly if Possible: Consider using your grant to purchase necessities directly in the store to minimize the need to carry cash.
- Use Familiar Stores: Choose stores you are familiar with, as familiarity with the layout and staff can add a layer of security.
- Avoid Counting Cash Publicly: Refrain from counting your cash in open areas within the store.
4. Bank Branches
Some beneficiaries have their grants deposited directly into their bank accounts. Collecting from inside a bank branch is often safer. For beneficiaries who receive their grants directly into their bank accounts, collecting from inside a bank branch is often the safest option. Bank branches are secure environments with professional staff and security personnel.
Safety Tips
- Follow Bank Staff Instructions: Adhere to any safety procedures or instructions provided by bank staff.
- Plan Your Visit: Visit the bank during less busy hours for a more relaxed and secure experience.
- Use Bank’s Security Features: Take advantage of privacy screens, secure transaction areas, and other security features offered by the bank.
- Avoid Discussions About Cash: Refrain from discussing the amount of cash you intend to withdraw or have withdrawn, even with acquaintances.
SASSA Grants Types and Beneficiaries
These grants cater to different demographic groups and needs. Here’s a summary of the various types of SASSA grants:
- Disability Grant: Aimed at individuals who are permanently disabled.
- Older Person’s Grant: Intended for individuals aged 60 years and above.
- Care Dependency Grant: Meant for caregivers of children with severe disabilities.
- Child Support Grant: For caregivers of children up to 18 years old
- Foster Child Grant: Intended for caregivers of foster children
- Grant-in-Aid: For those receiving an Older Person’s Grant or Disability Grant and require regular care
Additional Changes or Updates to SASSA Grants Payment Processes
- SASSA Postbank Gold Cards Validity Extended: The SASSA Postbank Gold Cards that had previously expired will now be valid until the end of 2023. Beneficiaries can use these cards at stores and ATMs to withdraw cash or pay for groceries.
- SMS Confirmation Requirement: SASSA SRD Beneficiaries will not receive their grant money until they get an SMS message confirming their payment approval.
- Name Consistency Requirement: For the collection of Covid-19 R350 grant funds, the name on the bank account or mobile phone number used must match the name of the approved applicant. Beneficiaries should run a SASSA status check to ensure their bank account information is correct.
- Direct Bank Account Payments: Now, SASSA grants are deposited directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts, which is not only convenient but also eliminates the need to queue at the post office
Emergency Contacts
Always have the number of the nearest police station handy for any security concerns.
Being aware and prepared for the December 2023 SASSA payment dates is crucial for a stress-free festive season. Whether you choose to collect your grants from post offices, ATMs, retail stores, or bank branches, it is essential to follow the provided safety tips to ensure a secure and smooth experience.
