The SASSA Older Persons Grant, often called the old age grant or pension, is a monthly payment for South Africans aged 60 and older who pass a means test. Here is how much it pays in 2026/27, who qualifies and what you need to apply.
Last checked: October 2026.
How Much Is the Old Age Grant in 2026/27?
From April 2026, the Older Persons Grant pays up to R2 400 a month, up from R2 315 in 2025/26, according to National Treasury’s 2026 Budget Review. The amount you receive depends on SASSA’s means test.
People aged 75 and older receive up to R2 420 a month, according to SASSA’s grant explainer; confirm the amount with SASSA.
For this month’s payment dates, see our SASSA payment dates guide.
Who Qualifies?
According to SASSA, you must:
- be a South African citizen, permanent resident or recognised refugee living in South Africa;
- be 60 or older;
- not be maintained or cared for in a state-funded institution;
- not already receive another social grant for yourself;
- pass the means test, which looks at the income and assets of you and, if married, your spouse.
The Means Test
SASSA checks both income and assets, and adjusts the limits each year. In an explainer reported in May 2026, SASSA put the monthly income limit at R9 350 for a single person and R18 700 for a married couple, and the asset limit at R1 584 000 for a single person and R3 168 000 for a married couple. Confirm the limits that apply to you with SASSA before you apply.
Documents You Need
- A certified copy of your valid 13-digit barcoded ID (and your spouse’s, if married). SASSA accepts alternative identification if you do not have an ID.
- A certified copy of a valid Section 24 refugee permit, if you are applying as a refugee.
- Proof of marital status, such as a marriage certificate, a spouse’s death certificate, a divorce decree or an affidavit in the case of desertion.
- Your latest payslip, not older than three months (and your spouse’s, if married).
- Three months of bank statements for all active accounts held by you and your spouse.
- A bank confirmation letter or three months of statements for the account you want the grant paid into.
- Proof of permissible deductions, such as tax, UIF, medical aid or a private pension or retirement annuity.
- Proof of assets, such as unoccupied property, cash investments, shares, endowment policies or invested lump sums.
SASSA may ask for more documents during your one-on-one screening.
How to Apply and Get Help
To apply, contact or visit your nearest SASSA office with the documents above. For questions, call SASSA’s toll-free line on 0800 60 10 11 or email [email protected]. More information is on the SASSA Older Persons Grant page.
