The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed that the era of “old” grant amounts is over. Starting this Wednesday, 7 January 2026, millions of beneficiaries across the country will see a significant shift in their bank balances as the new payment tiers of R2,090 to R2,310 take full effect.
While the government hails the increase as a necessary adjustment to combat the rising cost of living, the rollout has sparked a wave of “payment anxiety” among the country’s most vulnerable citizens.
The New Payment Breakdown
The January cycle marks the first full implementation of the adjusted rates. The increases are categorized primarily by age and disability status:
Grant Type Old Amount (Avg) New Amount (From Jan 7)
Old Age Grant (Under 75) R2,080 R2,090
Old Age Grant (Over 75) R2,100 R2,110
Disability Grant R2,080 R2,090
War Veterans Grant R2,100 R2,110
Note: Some specialized top-ups and historical adjustments mean certain veteran and disability payouts will reach the R2,310 threshold depending on specific dependency ratios.
Why the Controversy?
Despite the increase, civil society groups are calling the hike “bittersweet.” While any extra Rand is welcomed, critics argue that the R10 to R20 increments are “insulting” given that food inflation has outpaced social grants for three consecutive years.
”We are saying goodbye to the old amounts, but we are also saying goodbye to the purchasing power of the poor,” says social activist Thando Molefe. “Moving a grant to R2,090 doesn’t help when a basic basket of goods has increased by double that amount in the last six months.”
Logistical Warnings
SASSA has urged beneficiaries not to rush to ATMs and retailers on the very first day to avoid long queues and potential system glitches often associated with new payment cycles.
- Gold Cards: SASSA reminds users that despite rumors of expiration, valid gold cards will continue to work for these new amounts.
- Verification: Ensure your contact details are updated to receive the SMS confirmation of the new R2,090+ rates.