The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed a R10 increase in social grants, effective from October 2025. This small but significant uplift comes as part of the 2025/26 budget announced by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, aimed at supporting vulnerable populations amid ongoing economic challenges.
💰 Updated Social Grant Amounts
The R10 increase applies across several grant categories, ensuring that beneficiaries receive slightly higher monthly support. The updated amounts are:
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Old Age Grant (60–74 years): R2,320 (up from R2,310)
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Old Age Grant (75 years and older): R2,340 (up from R2,330)
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War Veterans Grant: R2,340 (up from R2,330)
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Disability Grant: R2,320 (up from R2,310)
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Care Dependency Grant: R2,320 (up from R2,310)
SASSA CEO Themba Matlou highlighted that this increase reflects the government’s commitment to assist those who depend on social grants for basic living expenses.
“This adjustment reaffirms our dedication to supporting vulnerable communities during challenging economic times,” Matlou stated.
📅 October 2025 Payment Schedule
To ensure smooth distribution, SASSA has published the following payment schedule for October 2025:
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Old Age Grants: 2 October
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Disability Grants: 3 October
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Children’s Grants: 6 October
Beneficiaries are encouraged to verify their personal information and banking details to prevent delays in receiving their grants.
🛡️ Combating Fraud: Biometric Enrollment & Security Measures
SASSA has taken important steps to improve security and reduce fraud in the grant system:
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Mandatory Biometric Enrollment: All new applicants must complete biometric registration, which includes fingerprint or facial scans. As of 1 September 2025, over 42,000 clients have been enrolled across 432 SASSA offices.
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Fraud Prevention: Recently, authorities apprehended a fraud syndicate in Johannesburg that defrauded beneficiaries of R265 million, with seven individuals, including SASSA employees, arrested.
Beneficiaries are urged to remain vigilant:
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Do not respond to unsolicited calls or messages requesting approval of transactions.
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Report suspicious activity immediately to SASSA to protect your grant.
These measures aim to ensure that the financial assistance reaches those who truly need it, while safeguarding the system against criminal activity.
✅ Key Takeaways for Beneficiaries
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Social grants have increased by R10 across most categories in October 2025.
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Payment dates are set in early October—check your details to avoid delays.
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Biometric enrollment is now mandatory for new applicants, enhancing security.
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Be aware of scams and fraudulent activity targeting grant recipients.
This update reinforces the importance of staying informed and proactive to ensure uninterrupted access to social grants. With these changes, SASSA continues to prioritize the safety, security, and financial well-being of millions of South Africans.