When beneficiaries can expect their money

South Africa’s social grant system is set to deliver relief once again, with the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) confirming that October 2025 payments will be made during the first and second week of the month.

The payouts cover more than 19 million South Africans, including recipients of the Older Persons’ Pension, Disability Grant, War Veterans Grant, Care Dependency Grant, Foster Child Grant, Child Support Grant (and Top-Up), and Grant-in-Aid.

Key October 2025 payment dates:

• Older Persons Grant: Thursday, 2 October

• Disability Grant: Friday, 3 October

• Children’s Grants: Monday, 6 October

Grant amounts remain unchanged:

• Old Age (60-74) & Disability: R2,315

• Old Age (75+): R2,335

• War Veterans: R2,315

• Care Dependency: R2,315

• Child Support Grant: R560

• Foster Care Grant: R1,250

• SRD Grant: R370

Temporary closure of Johannesburg office

Not all Sassa branches are running normally. Following fraud charges against eight officials who appeared in Lenasia Magistrate’s Court, the Johannesburg office has been temporarily closed from Monday, 15 September 2025.

The officials remain suspended while Sassa conducts internal disciplinary proceedings.

“This is a necessary step to restore functionality, strengthen fraud prevention, and rebuild public trust,” the agency said in a statement.

Alternative service points for Johannesburg residents

Sassa is not leaving beneficiaries stranded. Staff are being redeployed to Westbury Clinic, South Hills Community Hall, and the Cosmo City Multipurpose Centre on a staggered basis. These sites will offer essential services, while back-office teams continue processing applications and outstanding matters.

Sassa CEO Themba Matlou emphasised the importance of accountability:

“The suspension of the eight officials reaffirms Sassa’s intolerance of any form of malfeasance. Everyone must be held accountable for their actions.”

Matlou acknowledged the disruption caused by the closure but reassured the public that the agency is committed to smooth service delivery:

“It is unfortunate that this has led to a temporary closure, but measures are in place to ensure beneficiaries are attended to without interruption.”

Public reaction and context

Social media users have expressed mixed feelings. Many beneficiaries, especially in Johannesburg, voiced frustration at the disruption, noting that delays in social grants can have serious impacts on vulnerable households. Others commended Sassa for acting decisively against corruption within its ranks.

This situation highlights a recurring challenge for South Africa’s social grant system: balancing efficient service delivery with strict oversight to prevent fraud. Despite the setback, October payments are expected to proceed largely on schedule, thanks to the alternative service arrangements.

For beneficiaries, the key takeaway is to note their specific grant dates and, if in Johannesburg, to check which temporary service point is available for them.

{Source: The Citizen}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com