SASSA Grant Payment Dates 2025/2026

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) plays a vital role in supporting millions of vulnerable citizens by distributing various types of social grants, including older persons’ grants, disability grants, and children’s grants. For the financial year 2025/2026, SASSA has officially released its payment schedule, allowing beneficiaries to better plan their finances.

Understanding the SASSA grant payment dates is essential for anyone who relies on monthly support. This guide outlines everything you need to know—from specific monthly payment dates and grant types, to advice on how to confirm your payment status, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your financial security.

What is SASSA?

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is a government agency responsible for the administration and payment of social grants to qualifying citizens and permanent residents. These grants include:

• Older Persons’ Grants (also known as the SASSA old age pension)
• Disability Grants
• Children’s Grants, including Foster Child Grants and Child Support Grants

SASSA grants offer much-needed financial relief and are adjusted annually to keep up with inflation and economic changes. It’s important to track the payment calendar so you know when to expect your grant.

SASSA Grant Payment Dates for 2025/2026

Below is the official SASSA Grant Payment Dates schedule for the financial year 2025/2026. These dates indicate when each grant type will be paid into beneficiaries’ accounts:

What to Know About Each Grant Type

Older Persons’ Grant

The SASSA Older Persons’ Grant, commonly referred to as the SASSA old age pension, is available to South African citizens or permanent residents aged 60 or older who meet the income threshold. Payment is generally made on the first scheduled date of each month.

Disability Grant

The Disability Grant supports individuals who are medically unfit to work due to physical or mental conditions. Payment typically follows the older persons’ grants by one day.

Children’s Grants

This includes the Child Support Grant, Foster Child Grant, and Care Dependency Grant. These are usually paid on the third date of the schedule.

How to Check SASSA Grant Payment Dates

There are several ways to confirm the status of your SASSA Grant Payment Dates:

1. Visit the SASSA website: Go to www.sassa.gov.za and navigate to the relevant section.
2. Call the SASSA Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
3. Check via WhatsApp: Send “SASSA” to 082 046 8553.
4. Use the GovChat App: An efficient tool to track grant applications and payments.
5. ATM or Retailers: If your grant is paid into your SASSA card, you can use any ATM or approved retailer like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, or Boxer to check your balance.

Tips for Grant Beneficiaries

1. Avoid Crowded Payment Days

Many beneficiaries rush to ATMs and pay points on the first day of payment. Avoid the queues by waiting 1–2 days after your grant is deposited. Your money will remain in your account until you are ready to withdraw it.

2. Keep Your Card Safe

Your SASSA card is linked to your personal identity. Do not share your PIN with anyone, and report lost or stolen cards immediately.

3. Update Your Information

Make sure SASSA has your latest phone number, home address, and banking details. This helps avoid payment delays and ensures you get important notifications.

4. Be Wary of Scams

Never give out personal information to strangers, especially over the phone or online. SASSA will never ask for your PIN or banking login details.

Grant Increases and Budgeting

While the SASSA grant amounts for 2025/2026 may increase, it is wise to budget carefully. Use your grant primarily for essential expenses like:

• Food
• Utilities
• School supplies
• Medical needs

If you receive a Care Dependency or Foster Child Grant, prioritize school uniforms, stationery, and transport to ensure the child’s education is uninterrupted.

What If Your Grant Is Delayed?

If you don’t receive your grant on the expected SASSA Grant Payment Dates, do the following:

• Double-check the date for your specific grant type.
• Confirm your SASSA Grant Payment Dates status using the SASSA online portal or GovChat.
• Visit your nearest SASSA office if no payment is received after several days.

Common reasons for delays include incomplete bank details, expired medical assessments (for disability grants), or identification issues.

SASSA SRD R350 Grant

Note that the above dates do not apply to the SASSA SRD (Social Relief of Distress) R350 Grant, which follows a separate payment process and is not scheduled in the same way as permanent grants. The SRD grant payments are processed in batches, and beneficiaries are advised to check their status weekly via the SASSA website or WhatsApp.

Preparing for SASSA in 2026 and Beyond

As you approach the end of the 2025/2026 financial year, consider reapplying for temporary grants or reviewing your eligibility, especially if your income or household circumstances have changed.

Here are some suggestions for future preparation:

• Keep records of your payments.
• Renew temporary grants ahead of expiration.
• Check annual budget announcements for grant increases.

Final Thoughts

The SASSA Grant Payment Dates schedule for 2025/2026 ensures timely financial support for millions of South Africans. Whether you receive the SASSA old age pension, a disability grant, or children’s grants, knowing your payment dates helps you stay prepared, avoid unnecessary stress, and make informed financial decisions.

Be sure to check updates regularly from official SASSA communication platforms and remember—if in doubt, always contact them directly or visit a nearby office for assistance.