By the PF&D editorial team
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides an Older Person’s Grant (often called the “old age pension”) to help senior citizens who need financial support. For thousands of older South Africans, this monthly grant is a lifeline — helping them cover daily living costs and maintain their dignity.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Older Person’s Grant, you must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognized refugee.
- Be 60 years or older.
- Live in South Africa.
- Meet the means test (income and asset limits).
2025 Means Test Limits
These limits determine whether you qualify:
If you’re single:
- Maximum annual income: R102 720 (R8 560 per month)
- Maximum assets: R1 372 800
If you’re married:
- Combined annual income: R205 440 (R17 120 per month)
- Combined assets: R2 745 600
Note: For married couples, SASSA considers only half of your joint income when assessing your application.
You Will Not Qualify If:
- You already receive another social grant from the state.
- You are being cared for in a state-funded institution (your grant will be reduced to 25% of the full amount from the fourth month onward).
- Your income or assets exceed the set limits.
- You do not live in South Africa.
- You are not a citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
How to Apply Online
You can now apply for your SASSA grant online — a quicker and easier option for many seniors and families with internet access.
- Go to the official website: https://services.sassa.gov.za
- Register as a new user and create your login details.
- Log in to start your application.
- Select the grant you wish to apply for (e.g. Older Person’s Grant).
- Complete the online form and upload your required documents in PDF format.
- Print and sign the generated affidavit and Bank Payment Form, then have them certified by a Commissioner of Oaths before uploading.
- Submit your application — SASSA will process it and notify you of the outcome via SMS or ema
See the infographic below from SASSA for a step-by-step visual guide:
If you’re unsure about any steps, you can still visit your nearest SASSA office for in-person assistance.
Applying In Person
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
- Your ID (green bar-coded book or Smart ID card)
- Proof of marital status (if applicable)
- Proof of residential address
- Proof of income, investments, and assets
- Your UIF “blue book” or discharge certificate (if previously employed)
- If your spouse has passed away: the will and liquidation account
Step 2: Visit a SASSA Office
Applications must be made in person.
If you’re too ill or frail to go yourself, a family member or friend may apply on your behalf with a doctor’s note or written permission.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
- Fill in the form in front of a SASSA official.
- The official will take your fingerprints and conduct a short interview.
- You’ll receive a receipt as proof of your application.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing can take up to three months.
If approved, your payments will be backdated to your application date.
If declined, SASSA will notify you in writing, and you may appeal within 90 days to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA).
Receiving Your Grant
You can choose how you’d like to receive your payments:
- Via direct deposit into your bank or Postbank account — the preferred option!! 🏦
(It’s faster, safer, and lets you manage your funds conveniently without standing in queues.) - In cash at a designated pay point
- Using your SASSA card at an ATM or participating store
Grant Amounts (2025)
- Ages 60–74: R2 310 per month
- Ages 75 and older: R2 330 per month
(These amounts are reviewed and adjusted annually.)
Helpful Tips
- Apply as soon as you turn 60 — don’t wait.
- Keep your documents safe and up to date.
- Notify SASSA of any changes to your income or address.
- If you’re paid via a bank or proxy, submit a proof-of-life certificate each year.
- Keep your SASSA card and PIN safe at all times.
How to Check Your SASSA Grant Status
Checking your SASSA grant status is a straightforward process that can be done online or via your mobile phone. To check your status online, follow these steps:
- Go to the SASSA Status Check website: Visit the official SASSA website or directly access the SASSA SRD Grant Status Check page at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status.
- Enter your ID Number: In the appropriate field, enter your 13-digit South African ID number.
- Enter your phone number: Provide the cellphone number you used during your application.
Need help?
- Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
Or visit your nearest SASSA office for assistance.
Please mail us on talkhere@pensionersfroum.co.za for a pdf copy of this article
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Information in this article is provided for general guidance and may change without notice. Pensioners Forum & Deals cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies or updates in official SASSA policies, criteria, or payment amounts. Please confirm the latest details directly with SASSA before applying.