Old Age Grant Increase in 2025: A Detailed Breakdown
Beneficiaries of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grants saw changes to their monthly payments throughout 2025 following the 2025 Budget Speech. The Old Age Grant increase occurred in two phases, with an initial rise in April and a second adjustment in October. These adjustments are important for the many seniors who rely on this grant.
The Phased-In Grant Adjustments
The 2025/26 budget outlined a two-stage increase for the Old Age Grant. The first increase was in April, with a smaller top-up in October. By September 2025, all social grant recipients were set to receive the second part of the increase.
April 2025 Increases:
- The Old Age Grant increased by R120, reaching R2,310.
October 2025 Increases:
- A R10 increase brought the standard Old Age Grant to R2,320.
- Grants for those over 75 increased by R10, from R2,330 to R2,340.
How the Old Age Grant Compares in 2025
The table below shows the grant increases from the 2025/26 budget.
| Grant Type | Old Amount (Before April 2025) | Amount from April 1, 2025 | Amount from October 1, 2025 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Grant (< 75) | R2,190 (approx.) | R2,310 (+R120) | R2,320 (+R10) | |
| Old Age Grant (> 75) | R2,205 (approx.) | R2,330 (+R125) | R2,340 (+R10) | |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,205 (approx.) | R2,330 (+R125) | R2,340 (+R10) | |
| Disability Grant | R2,190 (approx.) | R2,310 (+R120) | R2,320 (+R10) | |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,190 (approx.) | R2,310 (+R120) | R2,320 (+R10) | |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,180 (approx.) | R1,250 (+R70) | Not applicable | |
| Child Support Grant | R530 (approx.) | R560 (+R30) | Not applicable |
Note: Amounts are based on announcements and may vary slightly depending on the final confirmation.
The Budgetary Context for the 2025 Increases
The 2025/26 Budget Speech included plans for social grant increases. While a VAT increase was rejected, a R1.6 billion increase for social grants in 2025/26 was retained. The two-phase increase helped manage the fiscal impact.
Accessing the Increased Grant
Grants are received through various channels like bank accounts, Postbank accounts, and cash pay points. Beneficiaries do not need to re-apply. SASSA confirmed preparations for the October payment cycle were on track. More details are available on the official South African Government website.
Conclusion
In 2025, the Old Age Grant in South Africa increased in two phases: April and October. The standard grant reached R2,320 per month from October 1, 2025, while the grant for those over 75 rose to R2,340. These increases were part of the 2025/26 budget and aimed to support vulnerable individuals. The new amounts are automatically included in regular payments.
