The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) continues its essential role in providing social relief to millions of vulnerable South Africans through pension and other grants. For October 2025, pensioners receiving the Older Persons Grant can expect to receive the updated amount of R2,315, with payments scheduled early in the month. This article provides a comprehensive update on the pension grant payment details for October 2025, including important dates, amount specifics, payment methods, eligibility criteria, and recent regulatory changes that affect beneficiaries.
October 2025 Pension Grant Payment Details
For the month of October 2025, SASSA will disburse the Older Persons Grant starting on Thursday, 2 October 2025. This payment includes the new grant amount of R2,315 for beneficiaries aged between 60 and 74 years. For beneficiaries aged 75 years and older, the grant amount slightly increases to R2,335.
The payment schedule for other grants is as follows:
- Disability Grant payments will begin on Friday, 3 October 2025, with the same amount of R2,315.
- Other grants, including child support and foster care grants, will be paid starting Monday, 6 October 2025.
SASSA advises beneficiaries not to rush to collection points on the first payment day, as funds will remain available in accounts until the beneficiary chooses to withdraw the money.
Updated Grant Amounts for 2025
In the April 2025 budget review, the government increased social grant amounts to address rising living costs. Below is a table showing the main grant amounts relevant to pensioners and other beneficiaries:
| Grant Type | Amount (Rands) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | 2,315 | For ages 60 to 74 |
| Older Persons Grant | 2,335 | For beneficiaries aged 75 and older |
| Disability Grant | 2,315 | Same amount as Older Persons Grant |
| War Veterans Grant | 2,335 | Slightly higher due to status |
| Foster Care Grant | 1,250 | Increased from previous years |
| Child Support Grant | 560 | Increased from R530 |
| Care Dependency Grant | 2,315 | Same as Older Persons Grant |
| Grant-in-Aid | 560 | For supplementary support |
Eligibility and Qualification Criteria
To qualify for the Older Persons Grant in South Africa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Be 60 years or older.
- Not currently receive any other social grant.
- Not be cared for in a state institution (such as an old-age home for four months or more).
- Meet income and asset means tests: single applicants should not earn more than R86,280 annually and not have assets worth more than R1,227,600; married applicants’ limits are R172,560 and R2,455,200 respectively.
Applicants must apply in person or have a trusted representative apply on their behalf with relevant identification and proof documents.
Payment Method and Collection Points
SASSA offers several convenient payment options:
- Direct electronic deposit into a nominee’s bank or Postbank account.
- Cash payments at authorized pay points such as post offices or retail outlets.
- For pensioners admitted to contracted care institutions, grants are reduced to 25% of the full amount for the period of institutionalization.
Beneficiaries are advised to keep identification documents safe and updated for easy and secure transactions.
Important Changes in 2025: Biometric Enrolment
From September 2025, SASSA has implemented mandatory biometric enrolment for all new grant applicants and certain existing beneficiaries. This involves fingerprint or facial recognition data capture to reduce fraudulent payments and improve security and transparency of the grants system.
The biometric system helps ensure only eligible individuals receive payments and improves audit efficiency for SASSA.
Summary Table: October 2025 Pension Grant At-a-Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | R2,315 (60-74 years), R2,335 (75+) |
| Payment Start Date | Thursday, 2 October 2025 |
| Other Grants Payment Start | Disability (3 Oct), Child Grants (6 Oct) |
| Payment Methods | Bank deposit, Cash at pay points |
| Biometric Enrolment Start | September 2025 (mandatory for new applicants) |
| Eligibility Age | 60 years and above |
| Income/Asset Limits | R86,280 yearly income (single), R1.2 million assets (single) |
| Contact for Queries | Nearest SASSA office or toll-free line |
FAQs About the October 2025 SASSA Pension Grant
Q1: When will the October 2025 pension grant be paid?
A1: Payments start on Thursday, 2 October 2025 for the Older Persons Grant.
Q2: How much will I receive in October 2025?
A2: R2,315 for ages 60-74, and R2,335 if you are 75 or older.
Q3: What if I’m admitted to a care institution?
A3: Your grant will be reduced to 25% of the full amount after four months in the institution.
Q4: Is biometric enrolment required for grant renewal?
A4: Yes, from September 2025, biometric data is mandatory for new applicants and some renewals.
Q5: How can I collect my pension?
A5: Via electronic bank deposit or cash at authorized pay points such as Post Offices.
Conclusion
The October 2025 pension grant payment of R2,315 marks a consistent effort by the South African government and SASSA to support older citizens financially amid growing living expenses. Pensioners should prepare for payments starting early October and ensure any biometric updates are completed to avoid disruptions. With updated grant amounts and improved payment security via biometrics, the pension system remains a vital lifeline for millions of South Africans.
