Gauteng pensioners demand bigger SASSA grants and easier banking

What’s changing in October 2026

Planned adjustments to old-age grants will take effect in October 2026. Research summaries show the Old Age Pension will rise to R2,190 for recipients aged 60–74 and to R2,210 for those 75 and older.

Why pensioners say that isn’t enough

Many pensioners told reporters the increases will not close the gap between fixed incomes and rising living costs. One grant recipient in his late sixties, named Gabriel in reporting, supports up to five dependants on the Older Persons Grant and said the money is gone by the third week of each month. He receives R2,400 a month from the Older Persons Grant and described regular food shortages despite sharing a household where relatives pool earnings.

Access and information problems

Gabriel said his payments are paid directly into his bank account, which spares him trips to collection points, and that the application process was simple. But he criticised long queues at SASSA offices, difficulty tracking application status and a lack of clear information online. He also said he was unaware of other support programmes that might help.

Pensioners’ demands

Pensioners in Gauteng are asking SASSA to raise grant amounts further, with suggested figures ranging from R3,000 to R5,000. They also want easier access to payments through their preferred banking channels.

SASSA’s position and guidance

The agency has acknowledged the financial pressures beneficiaries face. SASSA encourages beneficiaries experiencing payment issues to visit their nearest SASSA office for assistance.

Earlier increases this year

An earlier increase in April 2026 lifted the Older Persons, Disability and Care Dependency grants to R2,400, the amount Gabriel currently receives.

Reader engagement opportunities

According to The South African, “If you receive a SASSA grant and want to share your story, we want to hear from you. Take part in our survey and stand a chance to win R2 000.”

According to The South African, readers are also invited to take part in a separate survey: “WIN R5 000: Take The South African’s Winter Reader Survey.”