South Africa Social Security Agency (SASSA) is preparing for its social grant cycle of October 2025, with the Old Age Grant payments slated to start on 2 October 2025, a Thursday. This payment constitutes an integral part of the monthly payment schedule which also includes disability and other grants. Beneficiaries need to note that even if the dates indicate when the funds become available, the money remains in the accounts until it is withdrawn so there is no rush to withdraw immediately.
Ages & Eligibility Grant Amounts
For 2025, how much does the Old Age Grant (also called the “Senior Citizen Grant” or “Older Persons Grant”) pay? It is R2,315 monthly for payment to those persons aged 60–74 and R2,335 for those aged 75 and above. To be eligible, one must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognized refugee; and comply with means and asset tests. Applicants should not reside in state institutions, and they cannot receive any other personal grant concurrently.
Identification should include, but is not limited to, an ID document, proof of residence, proof of income or assets, and, in certain cases, proof of marital status.
Payment Schedule for Other Grants
SASSA’s schedule for October 2025 is staggered: while Old Age Grant payments start on October 2, disability grants follow the next day on Friday, October 3, and other grants such as child support and social assistance are due on Monday, October 6. It is aimed at easing congestion at pay points by stretching out the pay days for beneficiaries.
Biometric Enrollment and Fraud Prevention
Since September 1, 2025, SASSA has put a mandatory biometric enrollment system in place for new grant applicants, requiring fingerprint or facial recognition scans. The aims of this are to minimize misuse, duplicate payments, and fraud, and to enhance verification and auditing. The agency has managed to enroll tens of thousands of clients in numerous offices so far.
What Beneficiaries Should Do
Beneficiaries should confirm that their personal information and banking information is correct and up to date well in advance of the disbursement dates. For those who want to change how they receive payments, whether it be another bank or method, the request must reach SASSA before the 19th of the month so that it can apply to the following payment cycle.
If the money is not deposited into their account on the expected date, beneficiaries should wait for a few working days to allow for bank processing before contacting SASSA through the toll-free number 0800 60 10 11 or visiting local SASSA offices.
Also Read: SASSA Social Grants Increase October 2025: New Payment Amounts Revealed