Starting April 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed increases across seven major social grants.
These changes aim to support nearly 30 million South Africans who depend on financial aid from the state, especially amid rising living costs and ongoing concerns about fraud and eligibility verification.
The grant increase comes alongside the transition from the old SASSA gold card to the new Postbank black card, a process that remains in motion despite the formal deadline having passed.
Updated SASSA Grant Payment Amounts – April 2025
The table below outlines the new payment amounts for various SASSA grants effective from April 2025:
| Grant Type | Previous Amount (R) | New Amount (R) | Effective Payment Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Grant | 2,185 | 2,315 | 3 April 2025 |
| War Veterans Grant | 2,205 | 2,335 | 3 April 2025 |
| Disability Grant | 2,185 | 2,315 | 4 April 2025 |
| Foster Care Grant | 1,180 | 1,250 | 5 April 2025 |
| Care Dependency Grant | 2,185 | 2,315 | 5 April 2025 |
| Child Support Grant | 530 | 560 | 5 April 2025 |
| Grant-in-Aid | 530 | 560 | 5 April 2025 |
| Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant | 370 | 370 (unchanged) | Ongoing |
Note: SRD grants will remain at R370 until at least March 2026 and are not affected by this increase.
Why the Increase Matters
This increase in SASSA payments aims to ease the pressure on households grappling with inflation and high costs of essentials like food, transport, and healthcare.
The additional funds offer a vital buffer, particularly for vulnerable groups such as elderly citizens, children, war veterans, and people with disabilities.
The additional budget allocation—reportedly nearing R300 billion—reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to assist millions relying on the system while supported by tax contributions from around 7.4 million working South Africans.
Key Details About the SASSA Black Card Transition
With the SASSA gold cards expiring on 20 March 2025, beneficiaries are now required to migrate to the new Postbank-issued black card. Although the deadline has passed, the transition process remains ongoing.
Key Migration Points:
- Gold cards are no longer operational.
- Payments continue at Post Offices and major retailers using valid ID.
- Postbank black card collection is available at retailers such as Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Boxer, Spar, and Usave.
- No cost for card replacement.
- Home visit arrangements remain available for the bedridden or disabled upon request with valid documentation.
The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies confirmed that beneficiaries can still access their April grants while completing the black card swap.
Tips for Beneficiaries
- Double-check grant type and payment date to ensure timely collection.
- Collect your Postbank black card as soon as possible to avoid future disruptions.
- Update personal information with SASSA to stay informed about payment status and eligibility.
- Avoid fraud by keeping PINs and card information confidential.
Additional Grant-Related Support
SASSA continues to provide additional support mechanisms, including:
- Home delivery of services for those unable to travel.
- Community outreach events in rural and suburban areas.
- Call centres and walk-in centres for inquiries and support.
- Flexible banking options, allowing beneficiaries to select their preferred financial institution.
The April 2025 SASSA grant increase brings welcome financial relief to millions of South Africans. With payments beginning the first week of April and a continued focus on smooth card migration, beneficiaries are encouraged to stay updated and proactive in managing their entitlements.
Whether transitioning to the new Postbank black card or simply tracking the new grant amounts, staying informed ensures uninterrupted access to critical social support.
FAQs
Will SASSA payments continue if I haven’t switched to the black card yet?
Yes, payments will still be disbursed at Post Offices and retail points using a valid ID until the black card is collected.
Are SRD grants included in the April 2025 increase?
No, the SRD grant remains unchanged at R370 per month until March 2026.
Where can I collect my new SASSA black card?
Beneficiaries can collect the new card at designated retailers such as Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Spar, Boxer, and Usave.