How Do I apply for Old pension grant?
The SASSA Old Age Grant is sometimes called the Old Age Pension. This program provides financial aid to individuals aged 60 and over, who are no longer able to work or have no other sources of income. It serves as a valuable lifeline for those in need during their golden years.
It is designed exclusively for individuals who are South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees aged 60 and above. To qualify for this grant, you will need to undergo a means test that evaluates your income, assets, and other financial factors.
- Visit your nearest SASSA office: Go to your closest SASSA office to complete their application form. If you prefer to apply online, check out the instructions for online applications on the SASSA services website.
- Family/Friend Can Help: If you find yourself unable to go to the office due to age or illness, a family member or friend can apply on your behalf. Just make sure they carry a letter from your doctor’s note detailing the reasons preventing you from personally visiting the SASSA office.
- SASSA Interview: The application forms are available at SASSA offices and must be filled out in the presence of a SASSA officer. You have the option to complete the application on your own. If assistance is required, the SASSA officer will be available to help complete the form. They will also interview to determine eligibility for the grant. You will be notified about your eligibility for the grant after the interview.
- Keep Your Receipt: Once you finish the application process and the interview, you will be given a dated stamp receipt. Save the receipt you get, even if you do not qualify for a grant. It’s your proof that you’ve submitted your application.
What documents do I require for the Older pension grant?
The following original documents, or certified copies, are required for an application for an older person’s grant:
- You and your spouse’s identity documents or certified copies are required if you don’t have these documents.
- SASSA can provide you with an affidavit to fill out. this must be done in the presence of an Oaths Commissioner who is not affiliated with SASSA.
- A sworn statement signed by a reputable individual is necessary to verify your identity and age.
- SASSA requires your fingerprint for application processing. If you fail to get the ID, your application will be suspended by SASSA.
- Submit proof of your spousal relationship status.
- Marriage Certificate: If you are married
- Divorce Decree: if the marriage has been dissolved
- Evidence of your present residential address.
- You and your spouse must declare your income and assets.
- If your spouse passed away in the last 5 years, you must submit a copy of their death certificate.
- Evidence of your pension (If any).
- Documents proof of the income of dependent children.
- Bank statement for the past 3 months to be submitted.
Processing time for SASSA Old grant application
- Older person grant typically takes around 3 months.
- Payments for the grant will be processed once your application has been approved.
What to Do If Your SASSA Old Age Grant Is Not Approved?
If your grant application is rejected and you feel that there was an error in the decision, you have the option to ask SASSA to review your application:
- You have the right to appeal application decision.
- This means you asked a higher authority to review the case.
Eligibility Factors for Older Person Grant
Ensure that you fulfill the eligibility criteria before submitting your application for the grant for older pension grant:
- You must be South African citizens or refugees.
- Age must be 60 years old or older.
- You are not being maintained or cared for in a state-funded institution.
- Your spouse must also meet means test requirements.
- Applicants should not be receiving any other social grants for themselves.
- The maximum allowable income for singles is R86,280, and the limit for assets is 1,227,600.
- Married couples should not earn more than R1 72,560; the limit for assets is R2, 455,200.
Understand means test for SASSA Old Age grant
“SASSA means test,” which is to evaluate the financial situation of applicants, taking into account their income, assets, and other financial aspects. Its purpose is to ensure that only those who truly deserve the grant are eligible to receive it. As of April 1, 2024, two principal thresholds are in place:
- Assets Threshold
- A single person should not own assets valued above R1 372 800.
- The assets owned by a married person and their spouse should not exceed R2 745,600.
- Income Threshold
- The maximum annual income for a single person should be R96 840.
- A married couple’s combined income must be below R193,680 annually to qualify.
Important things to remember For appeal
You only have 90 days to file an appeal after your original application is submitted. The appeal will be reviewed by the Ministry of Social Development at the National Department of Social Development. If the appeals board agrees to your cause, SASSA’s decision will be overturned, and you will start receiving your grant payments.
SASSA Old Age Grant Payment Process
SASSA releases a payment schedule every month. This means that there are no fixed dates. Check your upcoming payment date. SASSA has three convenient ways to deliver your grant payments:
Bank Account
Your grant will be deposited directly into your bank account. If you prefer to receive your grant payments through a bank account, it is necessary to fill out a Consent Form for Bank Payment of SASSA Grant and provide the required documentation. Banks may charge a service fee.
- ID card, driving license, or birth certificate.
- Bank account number in your name.
- Three months of recent bank statements.
- Consent form for bank payment
To update your bank account or payment method, simply complete a form at the welfare office. Rest assured that once the verification is completed, your payments will be smoothly transferred to the new payment method.
Retail outlets
- You can withdraw your grant in cash at SASSA-partnered retail outlets such as Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, Checkers, Usave, and Spar.
- In some cases, you may receive your grant through direct deposit or cash disbursement from specific institutions like old age homes, disability centers, or non-profit organizations.
Why is your Old Pension Grant Suspended?
Your grant might be stopped (suspended) for a few reasons:
- Life changes: If something big changes in your life, like your income or living situation, SASSA might need to review your eligibility.
- Mistakes: If you accidentally gave wrong information when applying, SASSA might need to check things out.
- Not cooperating: If SASSA asks for more information and you don’t respond, they might need to pause your grant.
- Review findings: Sometimes SASSA reviews grants to make sure everything is accurate.
- Approved by mistake: In rare cases, if your grant was approved in error, it might be stopped.
contact sASSA for older grant queries
Have your ID number and grant details ready if you’re calling about an older grant application. Be polite and patient with the SASSA representatives. There are several ways to reach SASSA for grant-related questions: