South Africa’s elderly citizens are facing some significant changes this month with the SASSA Old-Age Grant. April 2025 has brought new updates, including increased payouts and important deadlines.
If you’re still using the old gold Postbank card, it’s time to take action before the end of May.
Let’s dive into what’s new, and what you need to know.
The Postbank Card Change Deadline
For those who haven’t switched their gold Postbank card to the new black card system, time is running out.
Postbank CEO Nikki Mbangashe confirmed that clients have until May 31, 2025, to complete the migration process.
With around 3 million people still needing to make the switch, expect potential delays, especially with the large volume of people trying to complete the process.
A Welcome Increase in SASSA Grants
In a welcome move, SASSA grant recipients saw a 5.9% increase in their monthly payouts starting in April 2025.
This increase is intended to help South Africa’s most vulnerable populations keep up with the rising cost of living.
The increase comes after a delayed budget speech, which approved the rise in payouts—surpassing the inflation rate of 4.9% in 2024.
Now, those aged 60 to 74 will receive R2 310, and those over 75 will get R2 330 per month. Disability grants also sit at R2 310, while the remaining war veterans will see their grants rise to R2 330 as well.
This increase aims to provide dignity and support for senior citizens who no longer have an income.
Who Qualifies for the April 2025 SASSA Old-Age Grant?
To qualify for the SASSA Old-Age Grant, you must be 60 years or older and a South African resident.
Additionally, the grant is means and asset-tested, meaning that only those in genuine need of financial assistance will be eligible.
It’s important to note that you cannot apply for the grant online.
You will need to visit a SASSA office in person to apply.
However, you can use the SASSA Online Services Portal to book an appointment, though it’s not always operational.
Documents You Need to Apply
To apply for the grant, make sure you bring the following documents with you:
- Smart ID card or green barcoded ID book
- Proof of marital status
- Proof of residence (dated within the last three months)
- Proof of income or financial dividends
- Details of any property or assets you own
- Declaration of any private pension
- Certified 3-month bank statement
- UIF records or discharge certificate from your last job
- Copy of your will and estate documents (if applicable, such as after the death of a spouse within 5 years)
SASSA will use these documents to confirm your eligibility and verify your identity through biometric scanning.
Income and Asset Limits for SASSA Old-Age Grant
To qualify for the SASSA Old-Age Grant, your income and assets must fall within the following limits:
- Single applicant: Max monthly income of R8 070, max annual income of R96 840, and max asset value of R1 372 800.
- Married applicant: Max monthly income of R16 140, max annual income of R193 680, and max asset value of R2 745 600.
If you exceed these thresholds, your application will be rejected, even if you’re over the age of 60.
Wait Time and Backpay
Once you’ve submitted your application, expect it to take at least three months to process. However, don’t worry—you’ll receive back pay for any months you were eligible.
This means you could receive up to three months of grants in a lump sum.
The wait time is due to the need for thorough cross-checking of your information by SASSA, Home Affairs, and banking institutions, which helps prevent fraud.
This extra layer of verification is important, as it was reported that around 75,000 deceased beneficiaries were still receiving grants each month.
Applying on Someone Else’s Behalf
If you’re unable to go to a SASSA office due to illness, age, or distance, a family member can apply for you. They will need the following:
- A doctor’s letter explaining why you can’t apply in person
- All the required documents
- Police certification (from a commissioner of oaths)
If your application is rejected, you have 90 days to appeal the decision.
Postbank Card Swap Issues Persist
SASSA clients who haven’t yet swapped their old gold Postbank cards for the new black card face ongoing issues.
Despite the extended deadline of May 31, 2025, problems like long queues, confusion, and system outages continue to affect the rollout.
According to Mbangashe, even with the current pace, it’s unlikely that all remaining 3 million Postbank clients will manage to switch on time.
Important SASSA Payment Dates
Make sure to mark your calendar for these important SASSA payment dates:
- Tuesday, April 2, 2025
- Tuesday, May 6, 2025
- Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Payments may take up to 2–3 business days to reflect in your bank account.
How to Contact SASSA for Help
If you need assistance, here’s how to contact SASSA—though reaching them can be a challenge due to high call volumes.
Despite all the red tape, SASSA Old-Age Grants remain one of the most vital support systems for South Africa’s elderly.
With so much at stake and a large volume of applications, it’s crucial to ensure your paperwork is in order and submitted before the May 31 deadline for Postbank card switching.
Keep an eye on The South African for further updates on the April 2025 SASSA Old-Age Grant changes, and be sure to act early if you’re turning 60 or need to migrate your Postbank card.
