The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is enforcing income thresholds for grant beneficiaries. This means that individuals or couples earning above specific amounts may no longer qualify for certain social grants.
Key points
- Income thresholds: These vary depending on the type of grant (e.g., Old Age Pension, Disability Grant, Child Support Grant) and marital status.
- Verification process: SASSA is reviewing beneficiaries suspected of having undeclared income that exceeds the threshold. This includes cross-checking with databases like the South African Revenue Service, NSFAS, UIF, and Home Affairs. Biometric authentication is also being introduced for new applicants and flagged beneficiaries.
- Consequences of exceeding threshold: Affected beneficiaries may have their grants suspended or cancelled. They are urged to visit SASSA offices within 30 days to clarify their income status and potentially avoid further escalation, which could involve legal action.
- Documents required: Beneficiaries called for review need to bring their ID, proof of income, 3 months of bank statements, and other relevant documents to a SASSA office.
- Purpose: The aim is to ensure that grants reach those who are genuinely in need and to combat fraud within the system.
Important income thresholds (per annum)
| Grant Type | Single | Married |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age/Disability/War Veteran’s Grant | R86,280 | R172,560 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R223,200 | R446,400 (combined) |
| Child Support Grant | R52,800 | R105,600 (combined) |
Recent updates
- SASSA is actively addressing fraudulent activities within the grant system, including unlawful deductions from grants.
- A new biometric system is being introduced for all grant applications starting from September 1, 2025, to enhance security and prevent fraudulent applications.
- Some beneficiaries might receive a double payout in September 2025, but this is mainly for those who experienced delays or missed payments in previous months, not a general bonus.
- Grant payment amounts have seen an increase in September 2025, aiming for inclusivity and fairness
Hi, I’m Owen. I’m passionate about sharing the latest government aid news, benefits, and policy updates so you can stay informed and make the most of available resources. My goal is to break down complex information into clear, easy-to-understand updates that help you navigate programs and opportunities that matter to you.