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South Africans who rely on SASSA social grants will be receiving a financial boost starting in September 2025. The government has officially confirmed an increase in several social grants, aiming to provide more support for those hardest hit by the rising cost of living.
The announcement brings relief to millions of beneficiaries who depend on these grants to meet basic needs such as food, rent, and healthcare. This decision is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen social welfare as the country continues to battle economic challenges.
Why SASSA Grants Are Being Increased
The Department of Social Development and National Treasury review grant amounts each year during the national budget. These increases are based on inflation, the rising cost of essential goods, and public demands for more robust social support systems.
In 2025, South Africa continued to experience high food prices, rising utility costs, and slow job creation. These economic pressures have forced the government to step in with a moderate but much-needed increase to several types of social assistance grants.
Breakdown of New Grant Amounts for September 2025
From September 1, 2025, all qualifying SASSA beneficiaries will receive higher monthly payments. Here’s how the updated grant amounts will look.
Older Persons Grant
- Individuals aged 60 to 74 will now receive R2,250 per month, up from R2,180.
- Beneficiaries aged 75 and older will receive R2,270 per month, previously R2,200.
The increase is meant to help older citizens with expenses like medical care, food, and transportation.
Disability Grant
- The Disability Grant will now be R2,250, increased from R2,180.
This amount is allocated to individuals living with permanent disabilities who are unable to work and need financial assistance.
Child Support Grant
- The Child Support Grant will rise to R550 per month per child, up from R530.
While the increase is small, it will help families cover the rising costs of food and school-related needs.
Foster Child Grant
- This grant will now be R1,200, slightly increased from R1,180.
It supports families and guardians who care for children placed in their foster care by the court.
Care Dependency Grant
- The new amount is R2,250, up from R2,180.
This grant supports caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require special care and resources.
War Veterans Grant
- War veterans will receive R2,270 monthly, previously R2,200.
Though only a small number of veterans qualify, the increase honors their service and supports their dignity in old age.
Payment Schedule and Accessibility
The updated grant amounts will be distributed according to the regular monthly schedule:
- Older Persons Grant: Monday, 2 September 2025
- Disability Grant: Tuesday, 3 September 2025
- Child Support, Foster Child, and Care Dependency Grants: Wednesday, 4 September 2025
Beneficiaries can access their grants through ATMs, retailers like Shoprite and Boxer, the Post Office, and mobile pay points. SASSA Gold Card holders can also withdraw cash without bank charges at participating ATMs.
Public Response to the Increase
Public reaction has been mixed. While many beneficiaries are thankful for the increase, some social justice groups believe the adjustments fall short of matching real inflation rates.
For example, food inflation alone has risen by over 6% in the past year, and the increased grants don’t fully cover that gap. Still, many South Africans see this as a step forward, especially given the country’s budget constraints.
Economic Implications for the Country
During the 2025 Budget Speech, the Minister of Finance emphasized that social grants remain one of the most effective tools in reducing poverty and inequality. The increased spending will be funded through improved tax revenue collection and internal budget adjustments.
While some critics question the sustainability of continued grant increases, economists agree that well-targeted social assistance can improve long-term economic stability by boosting consumer spending and reducing social unrest.
How to Check Your Grant Status
SASSA encourages all beneficiaries to check their payment status regularly using these official channels:
- Online: Visit the SASSA website and use the grant status checker.
- SMS: You can also send your ID number to a designated SMS line (as provided by SASSA).
- Call: Contact the SASSA call centre at 0800 60 10 11.
- In-person: Visit your nearest SASSA office for help with your account or grant queries.
Final Thoughts
The confirmed SASSA grant increases for September 2025 provide a lifeline to millions of South Africans facing economic hardship. While the increases may not solve every financial challenge, they offer meaningful support at a time when many households are struggling.
For families, pensioners, people with disabilities, and caregivers, every rand counts. As South Africa continues working toward economic recovery and growth, social grants remain one of the government’s most important tools for uplifting vulnerable communities.