The SASSA Older Persons Grant pays R2 400 per month to South Africans aged 60 to 74, and R2 420 per month to those aged 75 and older. These amounts took effect on 1 April 2026 following the Budget Speech delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. The SASSA Older Persons Grant, commonly known as the old age pension, supports more than four million elderly South Africans who cannot fully support themselves.
Who qualifies for the SASSA Older Persons Grant
To qualify, you must be 60 years or older, a South African citizen, permanent resident or recognised refugee, and living in South Africa. You must not be receiving another social grant for yourself, and you must not be cared for in a state institution. You must also pass the means test.
SASSA Older Persons Grant means test
SASSA evaluates your income and assets to decide whether you qualify. As of the most recent published thresholds, a single applicant must not earn more than R107 880 per year, while a married couple’s combined income must not exceed R215 760 per year. Single applicants must not own assets worth more than R1 524 600, and married applicants R3 049 200 combined. Your primary home is excluded from the asset calculation.
Documents required to apply
- Your 13-digit bar-coded South African ID
- Proof of marital status, where applicable
- Proof of residence
- Proof of income and assets, including three months of bank statements
- Proof of any private pension or annuity
- Bank account details, if you want payment by direct deposit
How to apply for the SASSA Older Persons Grant
Applications are made in person at your nearest SASSA office. A SASSA official assists you to complete the form, captures your fingerprints, and verifies your documents. You will receive a receipt that serves as proof of application. Processing can take up to 90 days, and approved grants are backdated to your application date. Applications are free. SASSA does not charge any fee, and no third party should ever request payment to process your grant.
When the SASSA Older Persons Grant is paid
The Older Persons Grant is paid first each month, usually on the second working day, before disability and children’s grants. For full monthly payment dates, see the SASSA payment dates 2026 schedule.
Sources
- South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)
- Western Cape Government: Older Persons Grant
- Department of Social Development: 2026/2027 social grant increases
- SAnews: SASSA 2026/27 payment dates
About this article
Nuusflits is a South African news publication covering current affairs, social grants and consumer information. This article is sourced from official primary sources, including the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the Department of Social Development, the National Treasury and SAnews. Facts are verified against the published 2026/27 social grant schedule and current SASSA policy. Last updated 21 May 2026.
Part of our SASSA hub: view all SASSA guides, payment dates and status checks.
