How to Apply for SASSA War Veteran’s Grant in 2025

The War Veteran’s Grant is a social grant provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to assist former soldiers who fought in the Second World War (1939–1945) or the Korean War (1950–1953) and are unable to support themselves. This guide outlines the eligibility criteria, application process, payment details, and what to do if your application is not approved, ensuring you can access this essential financial support in 2025.

SASSA War Veteran’s Grant.

Table of Contents

Do You Qualify for the War Veteran’s Grant?

To qualify for the War Veteran’s Grant, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
  • Live in South Africa.
  • Be 60 years of age or older, or be disabled.
  • Have fought in the Second World War (1939–1945) or the Korean War (1950–1953).
  • 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.

Note: If you live in a house owned by you or your spouse, its value is not included in the asset test.

How Much Will You Get?

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).
  • An institution acting as the administrator of the grant (e.g., welfare organizations).

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 the 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 the grant through a bank, institution, or procurator, you must complete a life certificate at a SASSA office every year.

When May the Grant Be Suspended?

The grant may be suspended for the following reasons:

  • A change in your circumstances.
  • The outcome of a review.
  • Failure to cooperate during a review.
  • Committing fraud or misrepresenting yourself.
  • A mistake made during the approval of the grant.

When Will the Grant Lapse?

The grant will lapse if:

  • You pass away.
  • You are admitted to a state institution.
  • The grant is not claimed for three consecutive months.
  • You are absent from South Africa.

Note: If you are admitted to an institution with a contract with the state for your care, the 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 War Veteran’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).
      • Provide a sworn statement by a reputable person (e.g., councillor, traditional leader, social worker, minister of religion, or school principal) who can verify your name and age.
      • Proof of application for an ID at the Department of Home Affairs.
      • A temporary ID issued by the Department of Home Affairs (if applicable).
    • Proof of your war service (e.g., certificate of service).
    • If under 60, a medical assessment or report stating that you cannot work.
    • Proof of your marital status:
      • If single, an affidavit stating you are single.
      • If married, your marriage certificate and your spouse’s ID.
      • If divorced, your divorce order.
      • If your spouse is deceased, your spouse’s death certificate.
    • If employed, your pay slips.
    • If unemployed, your Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) blue book or discharge certificate from your previous employer.
    • If you have a bank account, bank statements for the last three months.
    • If you have investments, information on the interest and dividends you earn.
  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. Receive a receipt as proof of your application.
  6. If enrolling for cash payments, the SASSA officer will provide a date to return and specify any additional documents needed.

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 War Veteran’s Grant

Can I receive the War Veteran’s Grant if I get another social grant?

No, you cannot receive the War Veteran’s Grant if you are already receiving another social grant for yourself.

What counts as assets in the means test?

Assets include investments, bank accounts, and other valuable property, but the value of the house you or your spouse own is not included in the means test.

What happens if I’m admitted to a state-contracted institution?

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

What proof of war service is required?

You need to provide documentation, such as a certificate of service, that confirms your participation in the Second World War (1939–1945) or the Korean War (1950–1953).