Sassa Grant Increases Confirmed and SRD Extended to 2026 in Budget 3.0

South Africa’s Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered his third national budget speech this week, confirming much-anticipated updates for millions of South Africans relying on social assistance.

In the 2025 Budget, dubbed “Budget 3.0,” Godongwana reaffirmed that all South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) social grants will increase in the 2025/26 financial year, and the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant will be extended until March 2026.

Despite fiscal pressures, these increases will go ahead without compromise, ensuring continued support for vulnerable citizens.

Here Are the New Sassa Grant Amounts for 2025/26

Starting later this year, beneficiaries will receive the following increases:

• Old Age Grant: From R2,185 → R2,315

• War Veterans’ Grant: From R2,205 → R2,335

• Disability Grant: From R2,185 → R2,315

• Care Dependency Grant: From R2,185 → R2,315

• Foster Care Grant: From R1,180 → R1,250

• Child Support Grant: From R530 → R560

• Grant-in-Aid: From R530 → R560

According to the National Treasury, the total number of grant recipients (excluding SRD) is expected to reach 19.3 million people by March 2028.

SRD Grant Extended – With a Twist

The temporary SRD grant, originally introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic, has been extended by another year. The government has allocated R35.2 billion to fund the R370 monthly payment until 31 March 2026.

But this time, there’s a longer-term vision.

Godongwana said the government is now looking at how to link the SRD grant to employment opportunities. One idea being explored is a job-seeker allowance, which could offer more targeted assistance and help unemployed citizens find meaningful work.

“Our goal is not just to provide relief, but to create pathways to employment and help people build better futures,” Godongwana said.

These plans are part of a broader review of Active Labour Market Programmes, designed to encourage self-reliance while maintaining essential income support.

SRD Payment Dates: May 2025

The R370 SRD grant is usually paid between the 25th and 30th of each month, but this month’s payment will be processed earlier because the 25th falls on a Sunday.

Confirmed May 2025 SRD Payment Dates:
23 – 28 May

Note: Sassa does not pay grants on weekends or public holidays, so beneficiaries should expect funds to reflect on the closest business days.

Budget 3.0 demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to protecting the most vulnerable while preparing them for long-term employment. With higher grant payouts and the extension of the SRD, 2025 offers some financial relief and renewed hope for millions of South Africans.

Whether you’re a grant recipient or someone trying to understand how national finances affect your community, these changes are vital to keep track of. Make sure to mark your calendars for payment dates and stay informed about possible job-linked grant initiatives in the near future.

{Source: The Citizen}

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