The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that social grants will increase starting February 2026. This adjustment aims to provide additional financial support to millions of beneficiaries, helping households cope with rising costs for essentials such as food, transportation, electricity, and healthcare. The new amounts will be applied automatically to qualifying recipients, and no reapplication is required.
The increase is part of government efforts to strengthen social protection and ensure that grant programs continue to meet the needs of vulnerable communities.
New Grant Amounts Effective February 2026
From February 2026, monthly payments for social grants will rise across several categories. The Old Age Grant and Disability Grant will now provide R2,315 per month to individual beneficiaries. Couples receiving these grants will see their combined payments adjusted accordingly.
The War Veterans Grant has also been increased, while child-related grants such as the Child Support Grant, Foster Care Grant, and Care Dependency Grant have received smaller increases to help families manage daily expenses.
Payment Schedule for Increased Grants
The revised grant amounts will be reflected in the February 2026 payment cycle. SASSA will continue using its staggered payment system, which starts with Older Persons Grants, followed by Disability Grants, and then children’s grants.
Beneficiaries can access their payments through direct bank deposits, SASSA cards, or approved retail outlets. Funds remain available after being deposited, so beneficiaries do not need to withdraw them on the initial payment date.
Who Qualifies for the Grant Increase
All current beneficiaries who meet SASSA’s eligibility criteria will automatically receive the increased amounts. Eligibility is determined through a means test that evaluates both income and assets, and applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
Those with pending applications or recent changes in their circumstances should check their grant status to ensure they receive the updated amounts.
Important Reminders for Beneficiaries
To avoid payment delays, beneficiaries must ensure their banking details and contact information are current and accurate. Incorrect or outdated information is the most common reason for delayed or missed payments.
SASSA also advises beneficiaries to remain vigilant against scams, especially during periods when grant increases are announced. Only official SASSA channels should be used for checking payment status or personal information.
What the Increase Means for Households
The February 2026 grant increase provides essential support to seniors, people with disabilities, and families caring for children. While the increased amounts help cover daily expenses, they may not fully meet all household needs.
SASSA remains committed to timely grant payments and will continue to improve its grant management systems throughout 2026 to ensure beneficiaries receive the support they need efficiently.