In a major relief for millions of South Africans, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed a double increase in social grants for June 2025. The announcement follows months of high inflation and public pressure, making this one of the most impactful updates to the country’s social protection system in recent years.
With another increase set for October 2025, beneficiaries are urged to stay informed, track their payments, and plan ahead as the government intensifies its efforts to cushion low-income households from rising costs.
Why Two Grant Increases in 2025?
Earlier this year, the Department of Social Development and National Treasury agreed to implement two phased increases in 2025. The goal was to offset inflation and improve support for vulnerable groups who rely on grants as their main or only source of income.
The first increase in April 2025 was seen as insufficient by economists and civil society groups. The June increase was introduced to close that gap, with a second round in October 2025 expected to keep grant values in line with the cost of living.
Key drivers behind the double increase include:
- Surging inflation affecting food, fuel, and utilities
- Public demand for stronger economic support
- Ongoing fiscal reform in preparation for the 2026 election
- Ensuring that social grants keep pace with household needs
- Strengthening the country’s social protection framework
June 2025 Grant Increase Breakdown
Beneficiaries received a notable increase in their June 2025 payouts. Here’s a summary of the updated figures:
Grant Type | April 2025 Amount | June 2025 Amount | Increase (ZAR) |
---|---|---|---|
Older Persons Grant | R2,080 | R2,180 | +R100 |
Older Persons (75+) | R2,100 | R2,200 | +R100 |
Disability Grant | R2,080 | R2,180 | +R100 |
Care Dependency Grant | R2,080 | R2,180 | +R100 |
War Veterans Grant | R2,100 | R2,200 | +R100 |
Foster Child Grant | R1,180 | R1,200 | +R20 |
Child Support Grant | R530 | R550 | +R20 |
These increases were reflected in payments made during the first week of June 2025, and have already eased the burden for countless households across the country.
What’s Coming in October 2025?
SASSA has confirmed a second round of increases in October 2025. While final figures are pending Treasury approval, early forecasts point to a similar rise in grant values.
Grant Type | Expected Oct 2025 Amount | Projected Increase |
---|---|---|
Older Persons Grant | R2,280 | +R100 |
Older Persons (75+) | R2,300 | +R100 |
Disability Grant | R2,280 | +R100 |
Care Dependency Grant | R2,280 | +R100 |
War Veterans Grant | R2,300 | +R100 |
Foster Child Grant | R1,220 | +R20 |
Child Support Grant | R570 | +R20 |
The October increase is aimed at sustaining household purchasing power through the year’s final quarter.
Unofficial Reports of Double Payouts in Some Provinces
Though not publicly confirmed by SASSA, reports from several provinces suggest that some beneficiaries received double payouts in June — likely due to delayed April top-ups or internal payment corrections.
Province | Approx. Extra Beneficiaries | Type of Increase Reported | SASSA Status |
---|---|---|---|
Gauteng | 140,000 | April top-up + June increase | Under internal audit |
KwaZulu-Natal | 130,000 | Older & Disability Grant boost | Verification ongoing |
Eastern Cape | 95,000 | Partial payment correction | Awaiting confirmation |
Western Cape | 88,000 | Alignment of April–June grants | No public update |
Limpopo | 75,000 | Double disbursement | Field reports, not yet confirmed |
Mpumalanga | 68,500 | Older person supplement | Local office processing claims |
North West | 59,000 | Missed April top-up paid | Confirmed once-off adjustment |
Free State | 52,300 | Duplicate grant payment | Being investigated |
Northern Cape | 26,000 | Bonus alongside regular payout | No statement issued |
Who Benefits Most from These Increases?
While all grants have been adjusted, certain groups benefit more due to their financial vulnerability and reliance on state support:
- Older persons, especially those over 75 years old
- Persons with disabilities needing medical care
- Single-parent households dependent on child grants
- Foster families supporting multiple children
- Rural communities with limited income options
These groups often face the highest living costs relative to income, making even small increases highly impactful.
How to Check If Your Grant Was Increased
Beneficiaries can verify their updated payment amounts using any of the following methods:
- Online: www.sassa.gov.za > Check My Status
- Phone: Call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11
- ATM receipt: Check the balance after withdrawal
- Retailers: View payment slips at Shoprite, Boxer, etc.
- In person: Visit a SASSA office with your ID document
Keeping your mobile number and banking details updated ensures smooth payment processing and notifications.
Public Reaction and Government Response
Public reaction has been broadly positive, with beneficiaries expressing gratitude for the additional support. However, some criticism remains:
- Civic groups argue that increases are not keeping pace with inflation
- Analysts call for automatic annual adjustments
- Citizens urge faster application processing and less bureaucracy
In response, government officials reiterated that the dual increases are part of a broader strategy to enhance social protection over the next election cycle.
Tips for Managing the Increased Grant
While the increase offers some financial breathing space, beneficiaries are advised to use the extra funds wisely:
- Cover basic needs first: food, electricity, medication
- Avoid high-interest loans or store credit
- Save a small amount monthly, if possible
- Buy in bulk or join community savings groups
- Reach out to NGOs for budgeting advice
Smart financial decisions can help extend the benefit of the increase well beyond the payment date.