Social grants, supplied to the most marginalised- older persons, disabled, and children- form an important portion of SASSA services towards South African poor people in a country where most have become financially stressed due to harsh economies. With the rising economic challenges, the African government has revisited the allocation it set aside for social grants- further boosting the value of the grant. Important things to know for the increased grants and how to claim them are discussed hereunder.
Increased Grant Quantities
Grow the number of social grants to an increased amount. This is announced by SASSA in response to the rising current economic pressures and inflation in the industry.
Older Persons’ Grant (Pension)
The actual grant has been increased and is going to be R2,070 for those individuals 60 years and older. The argument is that this will help the elderly South Africans maintain a dignified standard of living.
Disability Grant
A further increase in Disability Grant has brought it up to R2,070 monthly for those who qualify. The disability grant defines those individuals with physical or mental disability who cannot be in an employment capacity due to certain reasons as assessed through a medical board.
Child Support Grant
The amount has now been lifted from under R500 to R500 a month for every child under 18. According to the change, it assists families in coping with high living costs, according to the provision of necessary things such as food and education to children.
The same goes for all foster child grants, which have now been increased to R1,000 per month. The grants will assist foster families in adequately providing for and meeting the needs of children in their care.
How to Claim the Increased Grants
Claiming these increased grants from SASSA is a very simple process. For people already benefitting from grants, the percentage added will automatically be reflected in their monthly disbursement. However, if you have just joined or need to apply for a grant, do this:
1. Check your eligibility: The first thing to do is check whether you are eligible for that grant. For example, the age of pensioners and how disability is verified are key points that will determine whether someone qualifies. While for child support grants, it is the application of the main caregiver of a child under 18 years.
2. Application Procedure: Go to SASSA’s official website or visit the nearest SASSA office to apply for a SASSA grant. Another application mode would be mobile applications for some grants. Identification documents, income proof (if applicable), and any other required documentation for that specific grant (like medical assessments for disability grants) may be required.
3. Requirements: You will generally require a valid South African ID, proof of residence, proof of income (where applicable), and bank details for the grant to be deposited. Disabled applicants will also have to provide a medical certificate supporting their condition, where applicable.
4. Submission: After having all your documents ready, submit your application either online or at your nearest SASSA office. You will be informed of the status of your application, and once approved, you’ll move on to receiving your monthly payments.
Important Dates to Remember
It’s important to note the payment schedules for SASSA grants. Grant disbursements typically occur between the 1st and 5th of each month. However, these dates can vary based on the type of grant and the beneficiary’s last name.
Here are the expected payment dates for December 2024:
- Older Persons and Disability Grants: Payment starts from the 1st of December.
- Child Support Grants: Payments are typically made from the 5th of December.
- Foster Child Grants: Payments are often made shortly after the child support grants, generally by the 5th of December.
These dates may change slightly, so beneficiaries are encouraged to check the SASSA website or their bank for updates on their specific payment schedule.
Also Read: SASSA Grant Payment Increases for 2025: A Much-Needed Relief for South Africa’s Vulnerable