The Older Persons Grant: Who Qualifies and How to Apply
The Older Persons grant is a monthly payment for South African citizens, permanent residents and refugees aged 60 and over who live in South Africa, are not cared for in a state institution, and whose income and assets fall below the means-test limits. You apply free at a SASSA office with your ID and proof of income, and it is paid on the first payment day of every month.
Who qualifies for the Older Persons grant?
- Aged 60 or older
- A South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee
- Living in South Africa
- Not receiving another social grant for yourself
- Not cared for in a state institution
- Income and assets below the means-test limits, for you and your spouse together if married
A person receiving the SRD grant who turns 60 should apply for this grant; SRD stops at 60.
How does the means test work?
SASSA looks at your income (a pension, rental, interest, any earnings) and your assets (property other than the home you live in, savings, investments). Married applicants are assessed on the couple's combined income and assets. Above the limit, the grant is not paid; between the limits, it is paid at a reduced rate on a sliding scale.
The exact figures are reviewed each April. They are not printed here until they have been checked against SASSA's own published notice — see how we verify. For the current amounts, ask SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 or check sassa.gov.za.
How do I apply?
- Gather your documents: your 13-digit ID (or refugee status permit); proof of marital status; proof of income such as a pension slip; proof of assets; bank statements for the last three months if paid into a bank account; and, if you were employed, a UIF card or proof that employment ended.
- Go to your nearest SASSA office and complete the application with an official. There is no charge. If you cannot travel, someone may apply for you with a letter from you and a doctor's note.
- Keep the receipt. It is your proof of application and shows the date.
- Wait for the outcome, which can take up to 90 days. If approved, payment is backdated to the date you applied.
If refused, you can ask SASSA for reconsideration and then appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days of the decision.
When is it paid?
On the first payment day of each month — the Older Persons date on the 2026/27 schedule. The money stays in your account or on your Postbank Black Card, so there is no need to collect it that day. SASSA Gold Cards stopped working after 31 August 2026.
How do I keep the grant?
- Life certification. SASSA periodically requires proof that you are alive, now done online through e-Life facial certification or at an office. Missing it suspends payment.
- Reviews. SASSA may review your income and circumstances. Respond to any notice by the date given.
- Report changes — a new address, a change in income, admission to a state institution — to avoid an overpayment being recovered later.
Common questions
Can I get the Older Persons grant and the SRD grant?
No. SRD is for ages 18 to 59 and cannot be held with another grant in your own name. At 60, apply for the Older Persons grant.
Is the grant backdated?
Yes. If approved, payment starts from the date you applied, not the date of the decision.
Can someone apply on my behalf?
Yes, if you cannot get to an office. They need a letter from you and a doctor's note explaining why you cannot attend.
What if my spouse earns?
Married couples are assessed on combined income and assets. A working spouse can reduce or remove the grant.
Sources: sassa.gov.za; Social Assistance Act 13 of 2004 and regulations. Last verified August 2026.
Reviewed by Secure The Grant editorial team against official SASSA sources on . How we check our facts