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SASSA Old Age Grant 2024: Essential Benefits, Pension Dates You Need to Know

The SASSA Old Age Grant stands is tailored for individuals aged 60 and above, lack a stable income and face challenges in sustaining themselves due to age-related factors, this grant steps in to provide that crucial support.

Administered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the Old Age Grant is accessible to not just citizens but also permanent residents and refugees residing in South Africa. 

The heart of this program lies in the means test—a thorough evaluation of each applicant’s financial situation, including income and assets, ensuring that the assistance reaches those who need it most.

You can check you SASSA Status Check Online right now.

SASSA Old Age Grant
Table Of Contents
  1. SASSA Old Age Grant 2024: Key Factors and Essential Eligibility Criteria & Means Test
  2. SASSA Old Age Grant Procedure, Value and Cost
  3. Required Documents to Apply for Elderly Grant
  4. SASSA Older Persons Grant Processing Time & Status Check
  5. SASSA Old Age Grant Application Approval Problem, Payment Process & Balance Checking
  6. SASSA Old Age Pension Payout Dates 2024
  7. SASSA Old Person Grant Reviews, Suspension & Lapsing Reasons
  8. Frequently Asked Questions

SASSA Old Age Grant 2024: Key Factors and Essential Eligibility Criteria & Means Test

In 2024, the SASSA Old Age Grant continues to be a pivotal support for senior citizens in South Africa. If you’re considering this grant, it’s important to understand who it’s for and what the eligibility criteria are. 

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Citizenship and Residency: To be eligible, you must be a South African citizen, a permanent resident, or a recognized refugee. Additionally, you must be residing within South Africa.
  • Age Criteria: You should be 60 years or older.
  • Exclusive Grant Receipt: You are not eligible for this grant if you are already receiving another type of social grant.
  • Residency Requirement: You should not be living in a state-funded institution to qualify.

Means Test for Financial Eligibility:

For Single Applicants: Your annual income should not exceed R97 320.

For Married Couples: The combined income limit is R194 640.

Asset Limits: Single applicants should not own assets worth more than R1 379 400. For married couples, the asset threshold is R2,758 800.

This ‘means test‘ is a crucial step in the application process. It’s SASSA’s way of making sure the grant goes to those who genuinely need it. 

The assessment of your income and assets helps SASSA determine your financial situation and whether you fall within the grant’s intended recipient group.

When preparing to apply for the Old Age SASSA Grant, it’s essential to gather all relevant financial information. 

This includes details about your income, properties, and any other assets. Honesty and accuracy in providing this information are key. Misrepresenting your financial situation can lead to disqualification or future complications.

SASSA Old Age Grant Procedure, Value and Cost

Let’s discuss the essentials of the grant procedure, its value, and the cost-free application process.

Understanding the Grant Amount and Anticipated Increases:

Looking forward, there’s promising news. Starting April 1, 2024, the grant is expected to see an increment of R10 per person each month.

Effective from the upcoming adjustment on October 1, 2024, the monthly payments for the old age grant will increase by an additional R10 per person. Consequently, beneficiaries aged between 60 and 74 will receive R2,190 per person per month, while those aged 75 or older will receive R2,210 per person per month.

Cost-Free Application and Where to Apply:

One of the most reassuring aspects of the Old Age Grant is its accessibility. Applying for this grant doesn’t cost you a penny; there are no hidden fees or charges.

Apply for the SASSA Older Persons Grant Online

To apply for a SASSA Older Persons Grant online, follow these detailed steps:

Step 1: Access the SASSA Services Website

Visit the SASSA services website.

Step 2: Register as a New User

Click the yellow “Register” button on the homepage.

Click on Register Button for grant registration

Agree to the “Client Registration Consent” by clicking the box “I agree” and then click on “Apply.”

Click on I Agree Box of terms and conditions

Complete the “Client Registration Form” with the following personal information, then click the “Register Me” button:

  • Citizenship: South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
  • ID Number: Enter your ID number
  • ID Document Type: Choose ID document or temporary ID
  • Title: Select Mr, Mrs, or Miss
  • Surname: Enter your surname
  • Full Name: Enter your full name
  • Email Address: Provide your email address
  • Password: Choose a password (at least 8 characters with uppercase or lowercase letters, numbers, symbols, or special characters; avoid common words or names)
  • Confirm Password: Re-enter your password
  • Cellphone Number: Enter your 10-digit South African cellphone number starting with 0.
Fill the client registration form for old age grant

Step 3: Confirm Registration

  • Click the button to receive a One-Time-Pin (OTP) sent to your cellphone number.
  • Enter the 6-digit OTP from the “SASSA Registration OTP” message into the “Verification OTP” box and click “Verify” to confirm your registration.
Enter 6 digit OTP number and verify registration

Step 4: Log In

Log in to the SASSA services website using your username (your ID number) and password.

Login to your SASSA old person grant account

Step 5: Apply for the Grant

Click on “Apply for a Grant” and select “Older Persons Grant” then click “Continue.”

Click on Apply for Grant Button
Choose Old person grant and click continue

Step 6: Complete the Personal Information Form

Fill in the grant personal information form with all the required information.

Fill out personal information form for grant

Step 7: Provide Financial Details

Provide details of your income, assets, or any contributions to mutual funds. Select “Yes” or “No” according to your current financial situation, then click “Next.”

Provide your source of income information
Provide your assests information
Provide your mutual funds contribution information

Step 8: Upload Certified Supporting Documents

Upload certified copies of the following documents in PDF format:

  • A copy of your ID document
  • A copy of your spouse’s ID document (if applicable)
  • Proof of marital status: marriage certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of banking details: letter from the bank with your banking details and name
  • Proof of income (if applicable)
  • SASSA-generated affidavit

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for the SASSA Older Persons Grant online, ensuring all necessary information and documents are provided for a smooth application process.

Apply for the SASSA Older Persons Grant by Visiting Office

You can apply at your nearest SASSA office. If you’re unable to visit the office in person, you can nominate someone to apply on your behalf. This nominee should carry a letter of authorization from you and a doctor’s note, ensuring the process is smooth and respectful of your circumstances.

The application form, available at SASSA offices, must be filled out in the presence of a SASSA officer. This is to ensure accuracy and provide assistance if needed.

The process includes an interview with a SASSA officer. This isn’t just a formality; it’s a crucial step in determining your eligibility for the grant. The officer will guide you through the process, ensuring that all your questions are answered.

Upon completing your application, you’ll receive a dated receipt with a stamp. It’s important to keep this receipt safe, whether your application is successful or not, as it serves as official evidence of your application.

Required Documents to Apply for Elderly Grant

Let’s walk through the necessary documents you’ll need, ensuring that your application process is as smooth and successful as possible.

Gathering Your Identification Documents:

The foundation of your application is your original 13-digit bar-coded ID. This document is essential as it serves as your primary identification.

In cases where you don’t have an ID, SASSA has an alternative procedure. You’ll need to complete a standard affidavit form. This form is also available at SASSA offices or on their official website and must be filled out in the presence of an Oaths Commissioner, who is independent of SASSA.

If you’re unable to provide an ID or affidavit, a sworn statement from a community member of good standing, like a counselor, social worker, or religious leader, can be submitted. This statement should confirm your identity and personal details.

Learn how can you fill SASSA Old Age Affidavit form.

Additional Required Documentation:

  • Marital Status: If you’re married or divorced, bringing your marriage certificate or divorce decree is necessary.
  • Proof of Residence: You must show where you currently live. This could be a utility bill, a rental agreement, or any official document with your address on it.
  • Financial Information: This includes proof of stocks and dividends, asset documentation such as property valuation, and if applicable, evidence of a personal pension.
  • Bank Statements: Your recent bank statements, ideally from the past three months, provide a clear picture of your financial situation.
  • Employment and UIF Membership: If you were previously employed, your UIF membership evidence or a discharge certificate from your former employer would be necessary.
  • In Case of Spousal Death: If your spouse has passed away within the last five years, you’ll need to provide their death certificate. Also, if they had a will bring that too. And, if there are any papers about how their property and money were handled after they died, you should bring those as well, but only if they exist.

Understanding the Application Process:

It’s important to know that if you fail to acquire an ID from the Department of Home Affairs, your application might be temporarily suspended. This is why the affidavit and community verification alternatives are vital.

You might also need to provide additional details about any other financial holdings or investments you have.

All the documents you submit must be either original or certified copies. This is crucial for the validation process.

Ensuring a Smooth Application:

The accuracy and completeness of your documentation cannot be overstated. They are key to a smooth application process.

It’s a good idea to keep copies of all the documents you submit. These might come in handy for future references or in case of any queries regarding your application.

SASSA Older Persons Grant Processing Time & Status Check

Let’s talk about what you can expect once you’ve submitted your application.

Understanding the Processing Timeframe:

After you’ve put in your application for the Older Persons Grant, expect a waiting period of about three months. This time allows SASSA to thoroughly review and process your application.

It’s a period of anticipation, I know, but remember, it’s essential for SASSA to ensure everything is in order and that all applicants are fairly assessed.

What Happens After Approval?

Once your application is approved, SASSA doesn’t just start your payments from that date. They backdate your payments to the date you initially submitted your application. 

This means you’ll receive all the grant money you were entitled to from the start of the application process. It’s a way of ensuring that you don’t miss out on any financial support due to processing times.

Dealing with Application Rejections:

Not all applications are approved, and if yours is one of them, you’ll receive a letter from SASSA explaining why.

This letter is more than a notification; it’s a tool to help you understand what might have gone wrong. Maybe there’s a piece of information you missed or an error in your application.

Staying Informed About Your Application:

Keeping track of your application status is crucial, and thankfully, SASSA provides multiple ways to do this:

SASSA Official Website: A reliable source for up-to-date information.

Moya App: A great option for those who want to save on data costs.

SMS to 082-046-8553: For quick updates.

WhatsApp Messaging: Convenient and easy to use, just message the same number.

SASSA’s Toll-Free Number (0800-601011): Directly speak to a representative for detailed information.

These various channels ensure you can easily access updates and stay informed about the progress of your application.

SASSA Old Age Grant Application Approval Problem, Payment Process & Balance Checking

Let’s discuss these aspects in a more conversational and easy-to-understand manner, making it simpler for you to grasp the whole process. You can also check your SASSA payment dates.

Facing Application Rejection? Here’s What to Do:

Request for Reconsideration: If SASSA declines your grant application, don’t lose hope. You have the right to ask them to take a second look at your application.

The Appeal Process: In cases where reconsideration doesn’t change the outcome, you still have another option. You can appeal to the Ministry of Social Development. This needs to be done within 90 days of your initial application submission.

Review by the Ministry: The Ministry takes a fresh look at your case. If they find that you indeed qualify for the grant, they can overturn SASSA’s decision.

Notification of Appeal Outcome: Whether your appeal is successful or not, you’ll be informed in writing. If denied, the letter will explain why, giving you clarity on the decision.

Understanding the Payment Process:

  • When Payments Begin: Once your application is approved, payments are backdated to the date you applied. This means you won’t miss out on any funds during the processing time.
  • Multiple Payment Options: SASSA offers several ways to receive your grant:
  • Direct Deposit: You can have the money deposited directly into your bank account.
  • Cash Withdrawals: Collect your grant in cash at SASSA-partnered retail outlets like Pick n Pay and Shoprite.
  • Payments to Institutions: If you’re in an institution like an old age home, payments can be made directly there.
  • Changing Payment Methods: If your circumstances change or if you simply prefer a different method, you can easily update your payment option at your local welfare office.

You can change your banking details or payment methods here.

Checking Your Grant Balance:

Checking your SASSA balance is convenient and accessible through various methods, including USSD codes, ATMs, WhatsApp, online platforms, and direct calls to the toll-free SASSA call center.

  • USSD and ATM: Use USSD codes from your phone or visit an ATM. Be mindful that some banks may charge fees for ATM inquiries.
  • WhatsApp and Online: You can also check your balance via SASSA’s WhatsApp service or their official website.
  • Call Center: For direct inquiries, SASSA’s toll-free number is always an option.

SASSA Old Age Pension Payout Dates 2024

Grant MonthOlder Persons Grant
March – 202405/03/24
April – 202403/04/24
May – 202403/05/24
June – 202404/06/24
July – 202402/07/24
August – 202402/08/24
September – 202403/09/24
October – 202402/10/24
November – 202405/11/24
December – 202403/12/24
January – 202503/01/25
February – 202504/02/25
March – 202504/03/25

SASSA Old Person Grant Reviews, Suspension & Lapsing Reasons

As a beneficiary of the SASSA Old Age Grant, staying informed about the review process and the reasons that might lead to the suspension or lapsing of your grant is essential. It’s not just about receiving the grant; it’s also about understanding how to maintain it.

Regular Reviews for Continued Eligibility

SASSA conducts periodic reviews based on the information you’ve declared. This is a crucial process to verify if you still meet the grant’s eligibility criteria. 

It’s important for you as a grant recipient to keep SASSA informed about any changes in your life, whether they are related to your financial situation or personal circumstances.

SASSA send a written notice about the review, including its date, time, and venue, three months in advance. This notice is crucial for you to gather all necessary documents and information for the review process.

An annual requirement for all grant recipients is the submission of a life certificate. Additionally, SASSA accommodates those who are bedridden or immobile by conducting home visits, ensuring everyone has fair access to these reviews.

Reasons for Grant Suspension:

  • Changes in circumstances: Any significant alteration in your financial status or living situation.
  • Providing false information: Misleading SASSA can lead to immediate suspension.
  • Non-cooperation during reviews: Failure to comply with SASSA’s review process.
  • Errors in initial grant approval: If the grant was initially approved by mistake.

If you feel that your grant has been wrongly suspended, you can appeal the decision. You have 90 days to request a review from the Ministry of Social Development.

Conditions Leading to Grant Lapse:

  • Recipient’s death: The grant naturally ceases upon the recipient’s death.
  • Failure to prove existence: Missing annual life verification reviews can lead to the grant lapsing.
  • Non-collection of payments: Failing to collect the grant for three consecutive months.
  • Admission to a state-funded institution: Entering an institution that is fully funded by the government.
  • Extended absence from the country: Leaving South Africa for over 90 days without proper notification to SASSA.

Frequently Asked Questions

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