Many South Africans rely on the financial support provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to meet basic needs and maintain a stable livelihood.
SASSA administers various grants to assist vulnerable groups, including older persons, war veterans, people with disabilities, children, and those needing temporary relief.
Following recent announcements, beneficiaries are curious about the potential increases in SASSA grant payments for 2024. Here’s what to expect regarding SASSA payment increases in the coming year, as well as updated eligibility and grant extension information.
Expected Increases for SASSA Grants in 2024
SASSA has confirmed some changes to grant payments for 2024, with specific increases targeted at different types of grants. While some payment rates have been adjusted, others are expected to remain unchanged.
These increases are part of the government’s commitment to easing the financial pressure on vulnerable communities amid rising living costs.
Key Increases in SASSA Grants for 2024
Here’s a breakdown of the latest confirmed grant increases:
- Child Support Grant: Increased from R480 to R505 initially, and now further adjusted to R510 per child per month.
- Older Person’s Grant: Payments for beneficiaries aged 60 and above remain at R2,090 per month, while beneficiaries over 75 receive R2,110 per month.
- Grant in Aid: Set at R510 per month to support those who need extra care.
- War Veteran’s Grant: Payments are R2,110 per month for eligible war veterans.
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant: Expected to remain at R350 per month through March 2025, with eligibility requirements in place for monthly verification.
Additional adjustments, if any, will be formally announced by SASSA and the South African government.
| Grant Type | Current Amount (2024) |
|---|---|
| Child Support Grant | R510 |
| Older Person’s Grant (60-74) | R2,090 |
| Older Person’s Grant (75+) | R2,110 |
| Grant in Aid | R510 |
| War Veteran’s Grant | R2,110 |
| Social Relief of Distress | R350 |
Eligibility Criteria for SASSA Grants
Each SASSA grant is tailored to meet the needs of specific groups and includes unique eligibility requirements:
- Older Person’s Grant: Available to South African citizens aged 60 and above. Applicants must meet income criteria, earning less than R86,280 annually if single, or less than R172,560 if married.
- Grant in Aid: Offered to those receiving an existing social grant but needing additional care. The caregiver must also be a recipient of a disability grant, older person’s grant, or war veteran’s grant.
- Child Support Grant: Provides financial support for children under 18. The child and caregiver must both reside in South Africa.
- War Veteran’s Grant: Available to those who served in the Second World War or the Korean War, provided they are over 60 or have a disability.
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant: A temporary R350 monthly payment for individuals facing severe financial hardship and not qualifying for other SASSA grants. This grant has been extended until March 2025.
- Care Dependency Grant: For children under 18 with severe disabilities who require constant care. Both the child and caregiver must be South African residents.
Extension of the COVID-19 Relief Grant
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, commonly known as the COVID-19 relief grant, was set up to help those severely affected by the economic impacts of the pandemic.
Initially a temporary measure, it has now been extended until March 2025. This extension allows eligible South Africans to receive R350 monthly, provided they meet the criteria set out for each payment period.
Potential Future Adjustments
SASSA has indicated that additional updates on grant increases for 2024 may still be forthcoming, depending on budget allocations and the government’s financial priorities.
These increases are typically influenced by economic factors, including inflation and the government’s social welfare budget. Beneficiaries should monitor official SASSA announcements for updates on any further adjustments.
How to Apply for SASSA Grants
Those who qualify and wish to apply for any SASSA grant can do so by visiting a local SASSA office. Required documentation typically includes identification, proof of income, and residency verification.
The SASSA website also provides guidelines on eligibility and application processes for each grant type, ensuring that applicants have access to the support they need.
Through these various grants and potential increases, SASSA aims to uplift vulnerable communities in South Africa. Beneficiaries should keep an eye on official announcements for any additional adjustments that may help further alleviate financial pressures in 2024.
