How to Apply for SASSA Old Age Pension in 2025

The Older Person’s Grant, previously known as the Old Age Pension, is a social grant provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to support South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees aged 60 and older. This guide explains the eligibility criteria, application process, payment details, and what to do if your application is not approved, ensuring you can access this vital financial support in 2025.

the SASSA Older Person's Grant.

Table of Contents

Do You Qualify for the Older Person’s Grant?

To qualify for the Older Person’s Grant, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
  • Live in South Africa.
  • Not receive any other social grant for yourself.
  • Not be cared for in a state institution.
  • Not earn more than R86,280 per year if single or R172,560 if married.
  • Not have assets worth more than R1,227,600 if single or R2,455,200 if married.

How Much Will You Get?

The maximum amount for the Older Person’s Grant is R2,310 per month. If you are older than 75 years, you will receive R2,330 per month.

How Will You Be Paid?

SASSA will pay the grant through one of the following methods:

  • Cash at a specific pay point on a particular day.
  • Electronic deposit into your bank or Postbank account (note: the bank may charge a fee for this service).
  • Payment through institutions, such as an old age home.

Note: If you are unable to collect the money yourself, you can appoint a procurator at a SASSA office or give someone power of attorney to collect the grant on your behalf.

When May Your Grant Be Reviewed?

SASSA may decide to review your grant based on the income you declared during your application. You will be notified three months in advance of the review date or when a life certificate (proof that you are still alive) is due. If you receive your grant through a bank, institution, or procurator, you must complete a life certificate at a SASSA office every year.

When May Your Grant Be Suspended?

Your grant may be suspended for the following reasons:

  • Changes in your circumstances (e.g., increased income).
  • Outcome of a review.
  • Failure to cooperate during a review.
  • Committing fraud or misrepresenting yourself.
  • A mistake made during the approval of your grant.

When Will Your Grant Lapse?

Your grant will lapse if:

  • You pass away.
  • You are admitted to a state institution.
  • You do not claim the grant for three consecutive months.
  • You are absent from South Africa.

Note: If you are admitted to an institution with a state contract, your grant is reduced to 25% of the maximum amount starting from the fourth month of admission. The full grant is reinstated immediately upon discharge.

How to Apply for the Grant

To apply for the Older Person’s Grant, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the nearest SASSA office.
  2. Bring the following documents:
    • Your 13-digit bar-coded South African ID. If you don’t have an ID:
      • Complete an affidavit on a standard SASSA format in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths (not a SASSA official).
      • Bring a sworn statement signed by a reputable person (e.g., councillor, traditional leader, social worker, minister, or school principal) verifying your name and age.
      • The SASSA official will take your fingerprints and refer you to the Department of Home Affairs to apply for an ID.
    • Proof of marital status (if applicable).
    • Proof of residence.
    • Proof of income and/or dividends (if any).
    • Proof of assets, including the value of property you own.
    • Proof of private pension (if any).
    • Bank statements from the previous three months.
    • If previously employed, proof of Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) membership (“blue book”) or discharge certificate from your previous employer.
    • If your spouse died within the last five years, a copy of their will and the first and final liquidation and distribution accounts (if applicable).
  3. If you are too old or sick to visit the office, a family member or friend can apply on your behalf with a letter from you and/or a doctor’s note explaining why you cannot attend.
  4. Complete the application form in the presence of a SASSA officer (only you or the officer may fill out the form).
  5. The officer will interview you to confirm eligibility.
  6. Receive a receipt as proof of your application.

What If Your Application Is Not Approved?

If your application is not approved, SASSA will inform you in writing with the reasons for the decision. If you disagree, you can appeal to the Minister of Social Development at the national Department of Social Development within 90 days of receiving the notification.

How Long Does It Take?

It may take up to three months to process your application. If approved, payments will start from the date you applied.

How Much Does It Cost?

The application process is free.

FAQs for SASSA Old Age Pension

Can I apply for the Old Age Pension if I’m already receiving another grant?

No, you cannot receive another social grant for yourself if you apply for the Older Person’s Grant. You must not be receiving any other SASSA grant to qualify.

What happens if I don’t have an ID?

If you don’t have a 13-digit bar-coded ID, you must complete an affidavit in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths (not a SASSA official) and provide a sworn statement from a reputable person verifying your name and age. SASSA will take your fingerprints and refer you to the Department of Home Affairs to apply for an ID. Your grant may be suspended if you don’t obtain an ID.

Can someone else apply on my behalf?

Yes, if you are too old or sick to visit a SASSA office, a family member or friend can apply on your behalf. They must bring a letter from you and/or a doctor’s note explaining why you cannot attend.

What should I do if my grant is suspended?

If your grant is suspended due to changes in circumstances, failure to cooperate during a review, fraud, or a mistake in approval, contact your nearest SASSA office to address the issue. You may need to provide updated information or appeal the decision.