Mark your calendar: Here’s when Sassa grants will be paid in March 2026

For millions of South Africans, the start of a new month isn’t just about turning a calendar page it’s about waiting for that Sassa payment notification to come through.

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has confirmed that March 2026 social grants will start rolling out next week, bringing relief to more than 19 million beneficiaries across the country.

But alongside the payment dates, the agency has issued a firm warning: if you receive an SMS about a grant review, don’t ignore it.

March 2026 Sassa payment dates

Sassa has confirmed the following payment schedule for March:

• Older Persons Grant – Tuesday, 3 March 2026

• Disability Grant – Wednesday, 4 March 2026

• Children’s Grants – Thursday, 5 March 2026

As always, beneficiaries are reminded that there is no need to rush to withdraw money on the first day. Funds remain available in accounts after payment.

How much will you receive?

Here’s a breakdown of the current grant amounts:

• Old Age Grant (60–74 years) – R2 315

• Old Age Grant (75 years and older) – R2 335

• Disability Grant – R2 315

• War Veterans Grant – R2 315

• Care Dependency Grant – R2 315

• Child Support Grant – R560

• Foster Care Grant – R1 250

• Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant – R370

In communities across Gauteng, KZN and beyond, these payments often stretch across entire households covering groceries, electricity, school transport and sometimes even extended family needs. For many, it’s not just support. It’s survival.

Don’t ignore that SMS

Earlier this month, Sassa urged beneficiaries not to dismiss SMS notifications calling them in for grant reviews.

According to the agency, failure to respond could lead to a grant lapsing and no payment being made.

The review process is required under the Social Assistance Act. It’s designed to ensure that grants are still going to people who qualify and to prevent fraud or duplicate claims.

“Upon receipt of the SMS, the beneficiary must utilise the opportunity to visit Sassa offices,” the agency said, warning that non-compliance could interrupt payments.

On social media, reactions have been mixed. Some beneficiaries say they welcome efforts to curb fraud, arguing that abuse of the system undermines those who genuinely depend on grants. Others have voiced frustration about long queues at local Sassa offices, especially in rural areas where transport costs can eat into already tight budgets.

Why grant reviews matter

Grant reviews aren’t new but they’ve become more visible in recent years as government faces growing fiscal pressure.

With more than 19 million grants administered nationwide, even small-scale fraud can cost the state millions. Sassa says reviews help verify continued eligibility and life certification, ensuring public funds are not misused.

Fraudulent or duplicate claims, the agency warns, are an offence.

That said, the process has often been criticised for being stressful for elderly beneficiaries or people living with disabilities who must travel long distances to service centres.

Online reviews on the horizon?

There may be some relief in future.

Sassa has indicated that it could introduce online review options to reduce congestion at physical offices and cut travel costs for beneficiaries.

While details remain unclear, many South Africans online have welcomed the possibility especially younger caregivers who manage grants on behalf of children or elderly relatives.

Still, for now, reviews must be done in person at designated offices.

Keep your details updated

Another key message from Sassa: make sure your contact information is up to date.

Updated details ensure beneficiaries receive important notifications about their grant status, including review notices and life certification requirements.

If you’re unsure about your status or need assistance, Sassa’s toll-free number is 0800 60 10 11, available during working hours from Monday to Friday.

{Source: The Citizen}

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