In a country where poverty and unemployment remain widespread, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) plays a vital role in helping vulnerable communities survive. Each month, more than 19 million social grants are paid out, amounting to a massive R20 billion—a clear sign of the government’s commitment to social support and economic relief.
This article explains what this means for you, how to apply, and what types of SASSA grants are available to assist low-income households across South Africa,.
What Is SASSA and Why It Matters
SASSA was created in 2005 to distribute social assistance on behalf of the Department of Social Development. Its mission? To deliver the right social grant, to the right person, at the right time and place—always.
In rural areas, informal settlements, and townships, these grants are more than just financial help—they are the foundation of daily survival. They allow families to:
Put food on the table
Send children to school
Pay for medical needs
Get through tough times
News: SASSA Social Grants Increase & SRD Grant Extended Until March 2026
Who Benefits from SASSA Grants?
Millions of unemployed individuals, single parents, pensioners, and people with disabilities receive these grants every month. Here’s a breakdown of the main beneficiaries:
Children (through child support and foster grants)
Elderly citizens (through the old age pension)
People with disabilities
Unemployed individuals (via the SRD grant)
Breakdown of Social Grants Offered by SASSA
1. Child Support Grant (CSG)
Monthly payment for children under 18
Helps low-income families cover basic needs
Approximate value: R530
2. Older Persons Grant (Pension)
For citizens 60 years and older
Must meet income and residency criteria
Value: R2,180 (under 75), R2,200 (over 75)
3. Disability Grant
For those who are physically or mentally unable to work
Must be approved by a state doctor
Approximate value: R2,180
4. Foster Child Grant
For children placed in your care by a court
Covers more than the basic child grant
Value: R1,180
5. Care Dependency Grant
For caregivers of children with severe disabilities
Available up to the age of 18
Monthly value: R2,180
6. War Veterans Grant
For those who served in the second World War or Korean War
Must be 60+ or disabled
Includes additional benefits
7. Special Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant – R370 Grant
Originally introduced during COVID-19
Still available to unemployed individuals
Current value: R370 per month
How to Apply for a SASSA Grant
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Documents
You’ll need:South African ID (or birth certificate for children)
Proof of income (or no income)
Medical reports (for disability or care dependency grants)
Court documents (for foster care grants)
Apply In-Person or Online
Visit your nearest SASSA office
Or apply online for SRD grants via https://srd.sassa.gov.za
Wait for Processing
Your application is reviewed
If approved, you’ll receive monthly payments
Payments can be made via bank deposit, Postbank card, or cash paypoints
Who Qualifies?
You must meet income and residency criteria. For most grants, the means test is used to check if you’re eligible:
Single: Must earn under R52,800 per year
Married: Must earn under R105,600 per year
Other requirements:
Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
Live in South Africa
Meet the age, health, or parental responsibility guidelines of the grant
Payment Channels and Collection Points
SASSA offers multiple ways to receive your grant:
Direct bank deposit
SASSA/Postbank gold card
Retail partners (Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Boxer, etc.)
Community paypoints (especially in rural areas)
The Economic Impact of R20 Billion Monthly
Each month, over R20 billion flows into local communities, especially those with high unemployment. This money:
Supports small businesses
Keeps spaza shops running
Creates economic activity in underdeveloped areas
Helps reduce poverty and hunger
Need Help or Have Questions?
Call the SASSA Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
Visit: www.sassa.gov.za
Follow: @OfficialSASSA on Twitter or Facebook for updates
Learn More: SASSA Office Locations & Contact Details
SASSA is more than just a government agency—it is a lifeline for millions of South Africans. If you or someone you know qualifies for a grant, don’t hesitate to apply and receive the support you deserve. Every rand makes a difference.
Remember: It is your constitutional right to receive social assistance if you qualify.
