As the festive season approaches, millions of South Africans relying on SASSA grants face a period of careful budgeting amidst the rising cost of living. While the holidays are traditionally a time for celebration, many grant recipients must navigate financial constraints.
SASSA has reassured beneficiaries that December 2024 payments will be made on time, providing some relief during this challenging season. However, no additional bonuses have been announced, underscoring the financial pressures that many face.
Payment Schedule
SASSA has released the following schedule for December 2024, ensuring timely disbursement of various grants:
| Grant Type | Payment Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grants | Tuesday, 3 December | R2,190 (aged 60+), R2,210 (aged 75+) |
| Disability Grants | Wednesday, 4 December | R2,190 |
| Children’s Grants | Thursday, 5 December | Care Dependency: R2,190, Foster Care: R1,180 |
| Child Support: R530 |
Payment
To ease financial strain during the festive period, Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant payments will be processed earlier, from 17 to 23 December 2024. Though modest at R370, the SRD grant is crucial for nearly nine million South Africans, providing essential support in the face of economic uncertainty.
Increases
Looking ahead to 2025, SASSA beneficiaries may see incremental grant increases, though official confirmation is pending. Based on the finance minister’s Mid-Term Budget Statement, the following projections are anticipated:
| Grant Type | April 2025 Increase | October 2025 Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age, Disability, War Veterans | R100 | R10 |
| Child Support Grant | From R530 to R560 | No additional increase |
| Foster Care Grant | From R1,180 to R1,800 | No additional increase |
These projected increases are designed to align with inflation and help beneficiaries cope with the rising cost of living. Applications for grants can take up to three months to process, but payments will be backdated to the application date once approved.
Planning
For many SASSA beneficiaries, the festive season is a time of heightened financial stress. The unchanged grant amounts and the absence of additional festive allowances mean that households must stretch their limited income to cover holiday expenses. SASSA has emphasized the importance of careful financial planning and encouraged beneficiaries to seek assistance from local offices if needed.
Despite the challenges, SASSA remains committed to providing efficient disbursements and responsive services to support South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens.
Important Information
For detailed information on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and grant status, beneficiaries can visit the official SASSA website or contact their local SASSA offices:
Grant Enquiries Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Toll-Free Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11
Head Office Contact: 012 400 2322
FAQs
When will December 2024 SRD payments be made?
Between 17 and 23 December 2024.
How much is the Old Age Grant for those aged 75+?
R2,210 for recipients aged 75 and older.
Will there be a festive bonus for SASSA beneficiaries?
No festive bonuses have been announced.
What is the projected Child Support Grant increase in 2025?
It is expected to increase from R530 to R560 in April 2025.
How can I contact SASSA for grant enquiries?
Call 0800 60 10 11 or email grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za.
