SASSA Old Age Grant FAQ
Last updated: 14 April 2026
Older Person's Grant FAQ: who qualifies (age 60+), grant amount, means test, assets test, required documents, and how to apply at SASSA.
What is the Older Person's Grant?
The Older Person's Grant (OAG), commonly known as the old age grant or old age pension, is a monthly social grant provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to South African citizens and permanent residents aged 60 and older who meet the means test requirements. It is one of the largest social grant programmes in South Africa, supporting millions of older persons.
How much is the Older Person's Grant in 2026?
The Older Person's Grant is approximately R2 400 per month for persons aged 60 to 74, and R2 420 per month for persons aged 75 and older (from April 2026, per the National Budget). The amount is reviewed annually during the national budget speech and typically increases to account for inflation. The grant is paid monthly, either into a bank account or via a SASSA gold card at designated pay points.
Who qualifies for the Older Person's Grant?
To qualify, you must be 60 years or older, be a South African citizen or permanent resident, pass the means test, and not be cared for in a state-funded institution. The income threshold for a single person is R8 990 per month (R107 880 per year), as set by SASSA. If married, the combined income must be below R17 980 per month (R215 760 per year). You must also pass the assets test.
What is the means test for the Older Person's Grant?
The means test assesses both your income and assets. For income: a single person must earn less than R8 990/month; a married couple must earn less than R17 980/month combined. For assets: a single person's assets must be below R1 524 600; a married couple's combined assets must be below R3 049 200. Assets include property (excluding your primary residence up to a certain value), investments, shares, and cash.
What documents do I need to apply for the Older Person's Grant?
You need your South African ID (green ID book, Smart ID card, or temporary ID certificate) showing you are 60+, proof of residential address (utility bill or affidavit not older than 3 months), banking details (bank statement not older than 3 months), and proof of income or a sworn statement declaring no income. If married, bring your marriage certificate and spouse's ID. If widowed or divorced, bring the death certificate or divorce decree.
Where do I apply for the Older Person's Grant?
Apply in person at your nearest SASSA office. You cannot apply online or by phone — SASSA requires your fingerprints and original documents to be verified in person. To find your nearest office, call the SASSA toll-free number 0800 60 10 11 or visit the SASSA website (sassa.gov.za). Arrive early to avoid long queues.
How long does it take to get approved for the Older Person's Grant?
SASSA aims to process applications within 30 days of submission. If approved, the first payment is usually made within 30 to 90 days. You will receive an SMS notification of the outcome. If your application is declined, SASSA will provide the reason in writing and you have 90 days to appeal through the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA).
Does the grant amount increase at age 75?
Yes. When you turn 75, your Older Person's Grant amount increases slightly (approximately R20 more per month). This increase is applied automatically by SASSA — you do not need to reapply or submit any additional documents. The higher amount recognises the increased care needs of older beneficiaries.
Can I receive the Older Person's Grant if I have a private pension?
You can still receive the OAG if you have a private pension, provided your total income (including the pension) remains below the means test threshold. SASSA will factor your pension income into the means test calculation. If your pension pushes your income above R8 990/month (single) or R17 980/month (married combined), you will not qualify.
What happens if my spouse also qualifies for the grant?
Both you and your spouse can receive the Older Person's Grant individually, provided you both meet the age requirement (60+) and the combined household income and assets remain below the married thresholds. Each person must submit their own application and affidavit. The means test for married couples uses the combined thresholds.
Can I receive the Older Person's Grant if I own property?
Yes, you can own property and still qualify. Your primary residence is partially excluded from the assets test. However, additional property, investments, shares, endowment policies, and other assets are counted. Your total assets must remain below R1 524 600 (single) or R3 049 200 (married). The affidavit requires you to declare all assets.
What if I live in a retirement home or care facility?
You can still receive the OAG if you live in a private retirement home or care facility. However, if you are in a state-funded institution (i.e., the government pays for your accommodation and care), you are not eligible. Partially subsidised facilities require individual assessment — contact SASSA to confirm your eligibility.
How do I report a change in my circumstances?
You must report any change in income, assets, marital status, or living arrangements to SASSA within 30 days. This includes receiving an inheritance, selling property, getting married or divorced, or moving to a new address. Failure to report changes can result in overpayment recovery or grant suspension. Report changes at your nearest SASSA office.
Is my personal data safe when using FillMeIn to fill the affidavit?
Yes. FillMeIn processes all your data entirely on your device. Your ID number, income information, asset declarations, and all other form entries never leave your phone or computer — nothing is sent to our servers or stored in the cloud. This privacy-first approach means your sensitive personal and financial information stays under your control at all times.