The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced small but significant increases in social grant payments starting October 2024. These changes aim to provide some relief to vulnerable individuals, even as the agency grapples with tight budget constraints. Alongside the adjustments, SASSA has implemented improved payment processes to ensure beneficiaries receive their funds conveniently and securely.
Increase Breakdown
SASSA has introduced modest increases across several grant categories:
| Grant Type | Previous Amount (R) | New Amount (R) | Increase (R) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Persons (Under 75) | R2,180 | R2,190 | R10 |
| Older Persons (75+) | R2,200 | R2,210 | R10 |
| Disability Grant | R2,180 | R2,190 | R10 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,180 | R2,190 | R10 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,200 | R2,210 | R10 |
Notably, the Child Support Grant was excluded from this increase.
Why Only R10?
Many beneficiaries wonder why the increase is capped at just R10. Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA’s spokesperson, explained that these adjustments are influenced by budgetary constraints managed by the Department of Social Development and the National Treasury. SASSA is responsible for implementing grants based on government policies and allocated funds.
The social grant budget for South Africa stands at R265 billion—a significant figure spread across millions of recipients. Despite economic challenges, the National Treasury determines feasible increases to balance grant distributions and fiscal responsibility.
Enhanced Payment Process
SASSA has refined its payment system to address concerns of overcrowding and long queues at pay points. By staggering payment dates, the agency aims to create a smoother experience for beneficiaries, particularly the elderly and disabled.
Monthly Payment Schedule
| Payment Type | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | 2nd of the month |
| Disability Grant | 3rd of the month |
| Other Grants (e.g., Child Support) | 4th of the month |
This staggered approach reduces congestion and prioritizes the safety and convenience of vulnerable individuals.
Rural Access Challenges
Recent closures of cash pay points in rural areas raised concerns about accessibility. For some beneficiaries, traveling long distances to collect grants meant spending up to R300 on transportation—often a substantial portion of their grant.
SASSA has reassessed this issue and is working to restore or replace these services in remote locations. The agency remains committed to ensuring beneficiaries can access their grants without incurring significant travel costs.
Promoting Safer Transactions
To reduce risks such as theft, SASSA encourages beneficiaries to use bank cards instead of withdrawing all their funds in cash. This approach allows recipients to:
- Make secure purchases at retail stores.
- Withdraw smaller amounts as needed from ATMs.
- Minimize the risks associated with carrying large amounts of cash.
This strategy also aligns with SASSA’s efforts to modernize its payment system and enhance beneficiary convenience.
Moving Forward
While the recent R10 increases may seem modest, they reflect SASSA’s commitment to balancing financial assistance with fiscal constraints. By improving payment processes, addressing rural access challenges, and promoting safe transactions, the agency continues to prioritize the needs of South Africa’s most vulnerable populations.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to use their bank cards for secure transactions and trust that SASSA will continue refining its services to ensure grants remain accessible and reliable.
FAQs
What are the new Older Persons Grant amounts?
R2,190 for under 75 and R2,210 for 75+.
Why was the increase only R10?
Budget constraints set by the National Treasury limit the increases.
What is the SASSA payment schedule?
Payments are made from the 2nd to the 4th of each month, depending on grant type.
How is SASSA improving rural access?
SASSA is working to restore services in remote areas to reduce travel costs.
Why should beneficiaries use bank cards?
Bank cards offer safer transactions and reduce theft risks.
