The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) continues to support millions of South Africans who rely on monthly grants for financial stability. For March 2026, SASSA has confirmed the official payment schedule to help beneficiaries plan their budgets effectively. The agency ensures timely payments for older persons, individuals with disabilities, and families caring for children, as well as the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant for those facing unemployment or hardship. By maintaining clear communication and predictable payment dates, SASSA helps beneficiaries manage their finances with greater certainty.
Key Takeaways
- Updated March 2026 Payment Schedule: SASSA has confirmed that Older Persons Grants will be paid on 4 March 2026, Disability Grants on 5 March 2026, and Children’s Grants on 6 March 2026, while the SRD Grant will be distributed between 21 and 31 March 2026.
- Comprehensive Range of Grants: South Africans can access several SASSA grants designed to assist vulnerable groups, including older persons, people with disabilities, children, foster carers, caregivers, and unemployed adults, with payments ranging from R370 to R2 340 per month depending on eligibility.
- Practical Support and Application Process: Beneficiaries can apply for grants online, check payment dates using a USSD code or the SASSA website, and report late or missing payments through multiple official channels to ensure timely resolution.
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What Is SASSA?
South Africa operates one of the largest social support systems globally, managed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).
This government agency is responsible for the administration and distribution of social assistance, ensuring that grants and allowances reach individuals and families who are financially vulnerable or face significant hardship. Its core objective is to provide consistent state support that helps improve the quality of life for disadvantaged citizens.
The recipients of this aid include war veterans, single parents, foster carers, and people living with serious disabilities, among others who qualify under specific conditions.
The Bill of Rights, contained in Sections 24 to 29 of the South African Constitution, recognises every citizen’s right to socio-economic security. As a result, the government implements reasonable legislative and policy measures within available resources to progressively realise this constitutional right for all citizens.
Furthermore, SASSA operates under the SASSA Act of 2004, which was established to ensure the delivery of comprehensive social security services aimed at protecting citizens from poverty and vulnerability in line with the constitutional and legislative framework of South Africa.
Confirmed SASSA Payment Dates for March 2026
South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has made available its official payment schedule for the 2025/2026 financial year to assist beneficiaries across South Africa with planning. The dates for the Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant and Children’s Grants are as follows:
| Grant Type | Payment Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | 4 March 2026 | Paid first to prioritise elderly beneficiaries |
| Disability Grant | 5 March 2026 | Paid one day after Older Persons Grant |
| Children’s Grants | 6 March 2026 | Includes Child Support and related grants |
| Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant R370 | 21 to 31 March 2026 | Paid within a window period, not a fixed date |
These dates apply to all permanent social grants, excluding the SRD grant, which follows its own payment window. Since April 2025, all permanent grants (excluding SRD) have been increased in accordance with the update announced by the Department of Social Development.
Need to check earlier dates? See the payment schedules below for previous months:
How To Check SASSA Payment Dates
Understanding when your SASSA payments will be made is important for managing your monthly finances. Fortunately, SASSA provides several simple ways to find out your exact payment date. Below is a clear and practical guide on how to check your grant payment schedule.
Using Your Mobile Phone (USSD Code)
- Dial the Code: On your mobile phone, enter *134*569*47268# and press the call button.
- View Your Payment Dates: Once the code is entered, your payment details will appear directly on your screen. This method is quick, reliable, and works without an internet connection, making it suitable for any type of mobile phone.
Checking Online on the SASSA Website (For SRD Grant)
- Visit the Website: Open your internet browser and go to the official SASSA SRD website.
- Enter Your Details: Provide your South African ID number and the mobile number you used when applying for your SRD grant.
- Submit and View: Click on the “Submit” button to view your next SASSA payment date. The site will display the most recent payment status linked to your grant application.
Visiting a SASSA Office
- Go to a Local Branch: Visit your nearest SASSA office and request information about your grant payment schedule.
- Be Prepared to Wait: This option may take longer as it could involve waiting in a queue, especially during busy periods. However, it is useful if you need personal assistance or have other enquiries related to your grant.
Each of these methods ensures that you stay informed about your SASSA grant payments, helping you plan ahead with confidence.
Types of SASSA Grants and Amounts
SRD Grant
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant supports South African residents aged 18 to 60 who are unemployed and have no source of financial income. To qualify, applicants must not receive any other social grant, must not be eligible for or contributing to UIF payments, and must not have more than R624 deposited into their bank account each month. Successful applicants receive R370 per month.
Child Support Grant
The Child Support Grant (CSG) assists the primary caregiver of a child, such as a parent, grandparent, or a child over 16 heading a household, provided they fall below the income threshold defined by the means test. Beneficiaries receive R510 per child each month. If the caregiver is responsible for an orphaned child, they qualify for a combined payment of R760 per child, which includes the R510 CSG and an additional R250 top-up.
Foster Child Grant
The Foster Child Grant is designed for individuals caring for a child placed in their custody by the Children’s Court. The placement is typically due to circumstances such as abandonment, neglect, abuse, or the loss of both parents. Eligible caregivers receive R1 250 per child per month to assist with the cost of care.
Care Dependency Grant
The Care Dependency Grant is available to caregivers responsible for children with severe disabilities who require full-time, specialised care. This grant provides R2 320 per month per child, helping caregivers manage ongoing medical and daily support costs.
Disability Grant
The Disability Grant offers financial assistance to individuals with mental or physical disabilities that prevent them from working for more than six months. The grant may be approved on a temporary or permanent basis, depending on the nature of the disability. The maximum monthly amount for this grant is R2 320.
Older Person’s Grant
The Older Person’s Grant, sometimes referred to as the Pensioners Grant, is available to South Africans aged 60 years and older. Recipients under 75 years of age receive R2 320 per month, while those aged 75 and above receive R2 340 per month.
Grant-In-Aid
The Grant-In-Aid is intended for individuals already receiving a social grant who are physically or mentally unable to care for themselves. This additional payment is meant to cover the cost of a full-time caregiver and amounts to R510 per month.
War Veteran’s Grant
The War Veteran’s Grant assists former soldiers who participated in either the Second World War (1939–1945) or the Korean War (1950–1953) and are unable to support themselves financially. Qualified veterans receive R2 340 per month.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for a SASSA social grant, applicants must usually be South African citizens or permanent residents who live within the country’s borders. They are also required to meet specific income and asset limits, which differ based on the grant type.
Every type of grant comes with its own eligibility rules. For example, the Child Support Grant requires applicants to present proof of income, while those applying for the Disability Grant must undergo a medical evaluation. Understanding and meeting the exact requirements for the chosen grant improves the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Application Process
Applicants must submit several supporting documents when applying for a grant. These typically include:
- A valid South African ID
- Birth certificates for children (for child-related grants)
- Proof of income
- Medical reports (for disability-related grants)
How to Apply Online
SASSA has simplified the procedure by allowing some grants to be applied for online. To submit an application digitally:
- Visit the official SASSA services website.
- Create an account or sign in if you already have one.
- Follow the provided instructions to complete the application form.
- Upload all necessary documents as listed.
- Submit your application for review.
Once the application has been submitted, applicants can monitor its progress through their online profile or by contacting SASSA directly for updates.
Steps To Take If Your Payment Is Late
If your grant payment is delayed or not received on the expected date without any clear reason, it is essential to act quickly to resolve the issue. The following sections outline the steps you should take to ensure your payment is processed correctly.
| Step | What To Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Verify the Payment Schedule | Check the official schedule on the South African Social Security Agency website or call the SASSA helpline to confirm your exact payment date. | Payment dates differ by grant type. Confirming the correct date helps you determine whether there is a real delay. |
| 2. Confirm with Your Bank | Contact your bank to check for recent deposits and confirm that your banking details are correct and up to date. | Banking processing delays or incorrect account details can cause payments to reflect late or fail. |
| 3. Check at ATMs or Retailers | Use an ATM or visit participating retailers to see if funds have been loaded onto your SASSA card. | This helps you confirm whether the issue is with SASSA or your bank. |
| 4. Report the Issue to SASSA | Call SASSA customer care and request that your case be logged and investigated. Provide accurate personal details and the expected payment date. | Logging the issue creates a formal record and speeds up the investigation. |
| 5. File a Formal Complaint | If delays continue, submit a complaint to the SASSA Complaints Handling Office. | This escalates the matter to the appropriate department for further review. |
| 6. Visit a SASSA Branch | Go to your nearest SASSA office with your ID and any relevant documents. | In-person assistance allows officials to review your account and resolve the issue directly. |
Conclusion
SASSA continues to play a vital role in providing financial relief to millions of South Africans through its range of social grants. By ensuring predictable payment schedules, increasing grant amounts in line with inflation, and offering multiple channels for applications and payment checks, the agency strengthens its commitment to supporting those most in need. Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed about payment dates, maintain updated banking details, and report any payment issues promptly to avoid unnecessary delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will SASSA grants be paid in March 2026?
SASSA has confirmed that Older Persons Grants will be paid on 4 March 2026, Disability Grants on 5 March 2026, and Children’s Grants on 6 March 2026. The SRD Grant (R370) will be distributed between 21 and 31 March 2026.
How much is the SRD Grant for 2026?
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant remains at R370 per month. It is available to unemployed South African residents aged 18 to 60 who have no source of income or other social support.
How can I check my SASSA payment date?
You can check your payment date by dialling 134569*47268# on your phone, visiting the SASSA SRD website, or contacting your nearest SASSA office for confirmation. Each method provides accurate updates on the most recent or upcoming payment.
What should I do if my payment is late?
If your payment is delayed, verify the official payment schedule, check with your bank or SASSA card, and contact SASSA directly to log the issue. If unresolved, you may submit a complaint through the SASSA Complaints Handling Office or visit a local branch for assistance.
Can I apply for a SASSA grant online?
Yes. Some SASSA grants can be applied for through the official SASSA services website. You will need to create an account, complete the application form, upload the required documents, and submit your application for review. You can also track your application status online after submission.
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