Older Persons Grant (Old Age Pension)
The Older Persons Grant provides monthly financial support to South African citizens aged 60 years and older who meet the income requirements.
The Older Persons Grant, also known as the Old Age Pension, is one of the most significant social grants provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). This grant is designed to provide financial security to elderly South Africans who have limited or no income.
The grant recognizes the valuable contribution that older persons have made to society and ensures they can live with dignity in their senior years. It is paid monthly and is one of the first grants to be disbursed each month.
Ages 60-74 Years
R2,400 per month
Ages 75 Years and Older
R2,400 per month
To qualify for the Older Persons Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Be 60 years of age or older
- Reside in South Africa
- Not be cared for in a state institution
- Not be receiving any other social grant for yourself
- Meet the means test requirements (income and asset thresholds)
Means Test Thresholds (2026)
Single Person:
- Annual income below R99,600
- Assets below R1,372,800
Married Couple:
- Combined annual income below R199,200
- Combined assets below R2,745,600
The Older Persons Grant is always paid first, before other social grants. Here are the confirmed payment dates for 2026:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | 6 January 2026 |
| February 2026 | 3 February 2026 |
| March 2026 | 3 March 2026 |
| April 2026 | 2 April 2026 |
| May 2026 | 6 May 2026 |
| June 2026 | 3 June 2026 |
| July 2026 | 2 July 2026 |
| August 2026 | 5 August 2026 |
| September 2026 | 2 September 2026 |
| October 2026 | 2 October 2026 |
| November 2026 | 4 November 2026 |
| December 2026 | 2 December 2026 |
To apply for the Older Persons Grant, you need to visit your nearest SASSA office with the required documents:
Required Documents:
- South African ID document (Smart ID card or green ID book)
- Proof of residence (utility bill, lease agreement, or affidavit)
- Bank statement or proof of banking details (if you want direct deposit)
- Proof of income (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (if married)
Application Process:
- 1Visit your nearest SASSA office during working hours
- 2Complete the application form with the help of a SASSA official
- 3Submit all required documents for verification
- 4SASSA will process your application and notify you of the outcome