SASSA Older Persons Grant - Eligibility, Amount & How to Apply

Last updated: 24 Mar 2026

The Older Persons Grant, commonly known as the old age pension, is a monthly social grant provided by SASSA to South African citizens and permanent residents aged 60 and older. It is one of the most important social protection measures in the country, supporting millions of elderly South Africans. As of April 2026, the grant pays R2400 per month for those aged 60 to 74, and R2420 per month for those aged 75 and above.

Quick Facts - Older Persons Grant

Monthly Amount (60–74)

R2400

Monthly Amount (75+)

R2420

Who Qualifies

South Africans aged 60 and older

Next Payment Date

Thursday, 2 April 2026

How to Apply

In person at any SASSA office

2026 Increase

+R85/month

Who Qualifies for the Older Persons Grant?

To qualify for the Older Persons Grant, you must be 60 years of age or older and pass the SASSA means test. The means test assesses both your income and your assets to determine whether you qualify and at what amount.

Age Requirement	60 years or older
Max Income (Single)	R96 840 per year (R8 070/month)
Max Income (Married)	R193 680 per year (R16 140/month)
Max Assets (Single)	R1 372 800
Max Assets (Married)	R2 745 600
Citizenship	South African citizen or permanent resident

Additional Requirements

Must be 60 years or older
Must pass the means test
Must not be maintained in a state institution

Understanding the Means Test

The means test looks at all sources of income and the total value of your assets. Income includes wages, private pensions, rental income, interest, and any other regular income. Assets include property (excluding the home you live in), investments, savings, and vehicles. Your primary residence is excluded from the asset calculation.

If your income or assets fall between the maximum threshold and a lower amount, SASSA may award a reduced grant rather than the full amount. This sliding scale ensures that those with some means still receive partial support.

How to Apply for the Older Persons Grant

Applications for the Older Persons Grant must be made in person at a SASSA office. A family member or authorised representative can apply on your behalf if you are unable to visit the office due to illness or disability, provided they have a letter of authorisation and your original documents.

Gather Your Documents

Collect your South African ID, proof of residence, bank statements for the past three months, proof of any income or pension, and your marriage certificate if applicable.

Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office

Go to your nearest SASSA office during working hours (Monday to Friday, 07:30 to 16:00). If you are frail or disabled, a family member can apply on your behalf with a letter of authorisation.

Complete the Application Form

A SASSA official will help you complete the form and verify your documents. They will also explain the means test and what information is needed.

Undergo the Means Test

SASSA will assess your income and assets. You will need to declare all sources of income and provide supporting documents. Be honest - providing false information is a criminal offence.

Choose Your Payment Method

Select how you want to receive your grant - bank account, Post Office, or at a designated pay point. Most beneficiaries now receive payment directly into a bank account.

Receive Your Outcome

SASSA will notify you of the outcome, usually within a few days. If approved, your first payment will be in the following month's payment cycle.

Required Documents

South African ID document (original and copy)
Proof of residence (utility bill, municipal account, or affidavit)
Bank statements for the past 3 months
Proof of private pension or retirement annuity (if applicable)
Proof of any other income (rental, investments, etc.)
Marriage certificate (if married)
Spouse's ID and income details (if married)
Medical report (if applying due to frailty and need someone to apply on your behalf)

Older Persons Grant Payment Dates 2026

Older Persons Grant payments are made at the beginning of each month, usually on the first or second working day. Older persons and war veterans are always paid first in the SASSA payment cycle, ahead of other grant types.

Next Older Persons Grant Payment

Thursday, 2 April 2026

For the full payment schedule, visit our payment dates page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Older Persons Grant in 2026?

The Older Persons Grant is R2,400 per month for people aged 60 to 74. If you are 75 years or older, you receive R2,420 per month. This represents an increase of R85 from the previous amount of R2,315.

What is the means test for the Older Persons Grant?

For single applicants, your annual income must be below R96,840 (about R8,070/month) and your assets must be below R1,372,800. For married applicants, the combined annual income must be below R193,680 (about R16,140/month) and combined assets below R2,745,600.

Can I receive the Older Persons Grant and a private pension?

Yes, you can receive both, but the private pension income will be counted in the means test. If your combined income (including the private pension) exceeds the threshold, your grant amount may be reduced or you may be disqualified. SASSA calculates a sliding scale based on your total income.

Do I need to reapply for the Older Persons Grant each year?

No, the Older Persons Grant does not need to be renewed annually. Once approved, it continues until your circumstances change. However, SASSA may periodically review your eligibility and ask you to confirm your details through a life certificate or review process.

Can I apply for the Older Persons Grant at age 59?

No, you must be 60 years or older at the time of application. However, you can visit your SASSA office shortly before your 60th birthday to prepare your documents. You can then submit your application on or after the date you turn 60.

Related Grants

If you are an older person, you may also qualify for these additional grants:

Grant-in-AidR580/month War Veterans GrantR2,420/month Disability GrantR2,400/month Care Dependency GrantR2,400/month