Retirement grants for the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) always were relied on for the sustenance of the age-old widows, disabled, orphans, and the like. Over time, there have been several improvements to the program – the most recently recorded in January 2026, with proposed payment rises for the year 2026, which the present beneficiaries are impatiently waiting for.
Old Age Grant Amount as of 2026
With the increase in the grant rate from the past year of 2025, it was continued this January for 2026. Currently, no increase has been suggested, and the rates remain the same at R2,320 per person per month for those between the ages of 60 and 74 and R2,340 per person per month for those aged 75 and older.
These raises were made to enable the elderly to meet the ever-increasing costs of food, transportation, electricity, and healthcare. Though not impressive, these increments help to protect poor elderly citizens from inflation.
SASSA Payment Dates January 2026
Old Age Grant payments will be released in the first week. By the official payment calendar, the above 60s grant can be anticipated by 5 January 2026 ahead of the disability and child support grants.
Beneficiaries are cautioned against overrunning on the first day, as the grant money still resides within their bank accounts, ATMs, retail outlets, and the like-post-payment day.
Double Payments: An Important Note
During December 2025, some pensioners received a double grant payment, inclusive of payments for both December and January. This special arrangement was introduced in order to help beneficiaries with the extra festive season expenses and public holiday disruptions.
Assuming that payments in December cover January, there will be no double payment for Old Age Grants in January 2026. Beneficiaries ought to verify the appropriateness of bank statements and/or payment slips to check the double-payment status for the month of January.
Order of Old Age Grant Eligibility
Among others, a South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee aged 60 years or older qualifies to apply for SASSA Old Age Grant in 2026, provided they:
Are 60 years of age or above
Are either a South African citizen, a permanent resident, or a refugee
Meet its means test criteria
Have not applied for one of the other social grants for themselves
Are not accommodated in a state-subsidised home
From time to time, the information of the recipient may be checked by SASSA to confirm if he or she remains eligible for the grant.
What the Beneficiaries Should Take To Do Now
To avoid any delays or disruptions:
Make sure your latest banking details appear on the SASSA system.
Verify that Your ID and contact details are correct.
Make punctual responses to SASSA reviews
Monitor the SASSA channel press statements frequently for further details.
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