The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has not just formally announced its new social grant payment calendar for January 2026 but also made the payments schedule clear for beneficiaries. The revision of the schedule is meant to boost the whole process of making payments as well as making it easier for millions of South Africans to manage their finances more effectively during New Year.
Dates Grounding The January 2026 Grant Payments
SASSA will still be implementing a staggered payment system under the January 2026 calendar. The first payment to be made will be that of the Older Persons Grant, then the Disability Grant will follow and at the last round of payment, Children’s Grants will be paid which consist of the Child Support Grant, Foster Child Grant, and Care Dependency Grant. The organized way of making the payments prevents a situation where large crowds gather at the pay points and thus makes payment processing easier and faster at banks and retail outlets.
January 2026 Grant Amounts
There are no changes in the amounts provided for the different grants in January 2026. Elder persons of the ages of 60 to 74 years are to be paid R2,315 while those aged 75 years and above will get R2,335. R2,315 is the amount for the Disability Grant and Care Dependency Grant, whereas, the War Veterans Grant is R2,335. The Child Support Grant is R560, but an additional R280 is given to the parents who qualify. The Foster Care Grant stays at R1,250, and the SRD grant remains at R370.
Manner In Which Beneficiaries Get Their Payments
Payments are routed through the channels that have been approved, and among them are direct deposits into bank accounts, SASSA cards and Postbank cards. Beneficiaries who are using the bank accounts might have their money reflected in one to two working days, depending on the processing time of their bank. The funds that are deposited in the bank accounts remain there until they are withdrawn, therefore, the beneficiaries do not necessarily need to rush and collect their money on the payment date.
Checking Grant Status Is Important
Checking grant status and payment details benefits regularly SASSA to confirm approval and avoid delays. The interruption of payment may be due to wrong bank information or wrong personal details. Status checks done regularly help beneficiaries to resolve instantly any issues before the payments are processed.
Timing Of SRD Grant Payment
In contrast to permanent grants, the SRD R370 grant does not have a date fixed for payment. Payments are processed towards the end of the month after the eligibility and verification checks have been done. Beneficiaries should keep a close eye on their SRD status to know their individual payment dates.
January Expenses Planning Ahead
SASSA wants to support beneficiaries in their budgeting by announcing the payment calendar in advance for January expenses like food, transport, school supplies, and medical costs. Being informed and prepared will make it sure that the access to social grants will not be disrupted during this crucial time.
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