Old Age Grant by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides critical monthly support to millions of aged citizens. Recently in 2025, the grant experienced a surge in benefits, but nothing substantial for 2026 has been stipulated for now since the state is further striving to extend benefits-while operating under budgetary constraints.
Overview of the Old Age Grant
The Old Age Grant, which has been more popularly termed the state pension, is help provided to eligible older persons, aged 60 and above, to help them with basic livelihood. It remains a flagship social assistance program used by more than 3 million beneficiaries to aid in alleviating poverty among the aged.
Recent Increases in 2025
In the month of April 2025, the grant was increased by R130 due to the increased cost of living. A much smaller incremental change against the previous adjustment occurred in October, thus raising grants to the current level. Thus, the adjustment to the above-inflation levels made life less difficult during desperate economic moments.
Expected Changes in 2026
It is as of the end of 2025. 2026 will not merely have a big increase in pensions. Allowances in the budget continue to go toward keeping the SRD grant, extended through March 2026; so social grants are extended in accordance with sustainability. Possibly, minor inflation-based increments will be dictated, and one must wait for the Budget Speech of 2026 for those details.
Eligibility Remains Unchanged
A person collecting must be 60 years old or more, a citizen of South Africa, a permanent resident, or a refugee, in case of an examination with respect to means of subsistence. Income and asset thresholds ensure support gets him, with no other personal grants coming in at the same time.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Requirement | 60 years and older |
| Amount (60-74 years, post-2025) | Approximately R2,320 per month |
| Amount (75+ years, post-2025) | Approximately R2,340 per month |
| Expected 2026 Adjustment | Minor inflation-linked (pending confirmation) |
| Means Test Thresholds | Income below R86,280 (single); Assets below R1,227,600 |
| Payment Frequency | Monthly, early in the month |
Why Monitoring Updates Matters
The developments written for the SASSA pension increases in 2026 will be known upon the completion of the national budget in the next few months. Given rising healthcare and living expenses, any level of adjustment can mean more than a world for pensioners living with these limited resources.
So be connected through all the available official and authoritative SASSA channels, and the toll-free helpline will assure you of nothing but certain payments and possible changes in 2026.
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