Reminder: SASSA old-age grants paid out today

Payment of SASSA old-age grants for July 2024 will go ahead today (Tuesday 2 July). This follows weeks of uncertainty ahead of the announcement of Sisisi Tolashe as new 2024 Minister of Social Development. Also, owing to a somewhat unique payment calendar, SASSA old-age grants for July 2024 are being disbursed a few days ‘early’ this month. Furthermore, the usual South African Social Security Agency window – from the fourth to sixth of each month excluding weekends – will resume from August onwards.

SASSA OLD-AGE GRANTS FOR JULY 2024

Minister Lindiwe Zulu was ousted earlier this year and has been replaced by ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) President, Sisisi Tolashe as head of the Department of Social Development (DSD). Currently, SASSA old-age grants for July 2024 sit at R2 180 (over 60) and R2 200 (over 75). And, as we know all too well, these stipends often go towards feeding several mouths in the household.

Instead of funds being used for chronic medication and healthcare for the actual recipient, pensioners are having to support several generations. Moreover, this is an issue that Minister Tolashe will have to address urgently. Because it has been scientifically proven that older persons who don’t receive sufficient financial and medical support in later years are 50% more likely to suffer from serious illnesses. These include the likes of diabetes, hypertension and sight, mobility and cognitive difficulties.

APPLY HERE FOR A SASSA PENSION

According to the agency, you must apply for a government pension at any SASSA branch. Of course, only those who are 60 years of age or older are eligible. The application cannot be done online, and you must provide the following documents:

• 13-digit bar-coded identity document (ID).
• Proof of your marital status.
• A proof of residence (utility bill with your name on it).
• Papers confirming your proof of income and/or dividend.
• Information regarding all your assets, including the value of the property you own.
• Declaration of a private pension (if applicable).
• Three months’ statements certified by your bank.
• Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) membership ‘blue book’ or discharge certificate from your previous employer.
• Copy of your will and first and final liquidation and distribution accounts if you were married but your spouse has passed away in the last five years.

To have a loved one, family or friend apply on your behalf, they will need a letter from you and/or a doctor explaining why you cannot visit the office yourself. All of the above documentation must be taken to a police station and certified by a commissioner of oaths.

SASSA ASSET AND MEANS TEST

Furthermore, to ensure no one takes advantage of the SASSA grant system, the government uses an asset and means test:  

• If you’re single, your statements must show you do not earn more than R8 070 per month (R96 840 per year).
• If you’re married, the total income you show to SASSA cannot exceed R16 140 per month (R193 680 per year).
• Similarly, the asset declaration limitations are R1 372 800 single.
• Likewise, no more than R2 745 600, if you’re married.

SASSA PENSION PAYMENTS FOR 2024

• Friday 2 August 2024.
• Tuesday 3 September 2024.
• Wednesday 2 October 2024.
• Tuesday 5 November 2024.
• Tuesday 3 December 2024.

*SASSA reminds beneficiaries that government pension grants in July 2024 will take 2-3 days to reflect in your bank account.