how to apply for old age grant?

SASSA Old Age Grant – How to Apply, Approve Grant?

 The Old Age Grant, also known as the Old Age Pension, is a South African social welfare program offering financial support to elderly citizens who are 60 years or older and have no income. Administered by SASSA Status check, this grant is available to South African citizens, refugees, and permanent residents. Eligibility is determined through a means test that evaluates the applicant’s income and assets. Once approved, recipients receive monthly payments.

How to apply for the SASSA Old Age Grant?

Complete the SASSA Old Age Grant application at your nearest SASSA branch or apply online through the SASSA Services website by following the provided instructions. If you are unable to apply in person due to age, a trusted family member or friend can apply on your behalf with a note from your doctor explaining your inability to visit the SASSA offices.

If you qualify for the grant, SASSA will send you an email after the interview. Once your application is completed, you will receive a dated stamped receipt that includes your application number.

Required documents to apply for Elderly Grant

When applying for the Older Persons Grant, you must bring the following documents (originals or certified copies) to the SASSA Office:

  1. Your original 13-digit barcode ID document. If you don’t have an ID, SASSA officials will provide the necessary form, or you can download the SASSA Affidavit here.
  2. A sworn declaration signed by a reputable person, such as a social worker, counselor, traditional leader, religious minister, or school principal.
  3. SASSA will take your fingerprints to process your application. You will be directed to the Department of Home Affairs to obtain your ID. If you don’t provide the ID, your application will be suspended.
  4. Proof of your marital status (if applicable):
    • Marriage certificate if you’re married.
    • Divorce order if your marriage has been dissolved.
  5. Proof of your current address.
  6. Evidence of any stocks and dividends. If married, this applies to both spouses.
  7. Proof of your assets and the value of any property you own.
  8. Proof of any pension you receive.
  9. Bank statements for the past three months.
  10. If you have previously worked, proof of membership to the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), also known as the “Blue Book,” or a discharge certificate from your former employer.
  11. If your spouse has died within the last five years, provide their death certificate, their final will, and the liquidation accounts.

Process Time to Apply for SASSA Grants for Older People

Apply for SASSA Grants for Older People

The processing time for applications is usually about three months. Once your application is approved, payments will begin and will be backdated to the date of submission. If your application is denied, SASSA will send you a letter detailing the reasons for the rejection.

Eligibility Aspects for the SASSA old age grant:

Before applying for the grant, ensure you meet these criteria:

  • You must be a South African national or permanent resident.
  • South African applicants must reside within the country.
  • No other social grants are permissible.
  • The minimum age requirement is 60.
  • Residence in a state station is not permitted.
  • Both you and your spouse must comply with the means test.
  • For single individuals, annual income must not exceed R96,840 (or R8,070 per month). Married couples should keep their combined earnings below R193,680 (or R16,140 monthly).
  • The total combined assets for married couples should not exceed R2,745,600.

SASSA Aged Grant Balance Check

After your old-age pension application is approved and grant payments begin, it’s important to monitor your account balance regularly. Here’s how:

  • Dial the USSD codes 1203210# and 12069277# from your mobile phone.
  • Withdraw cash from any ATM (standard charges may apply).
  • Contact SASSA via WhatsApp at 022 046 855.
  • Visit the official SASSA website.
  • Call the toll-free SASSA call center at 0800 651 011.

SASSA Old Age Grant Review Process:

SASSA may review the old age grant you received to ensure your income aligns with your application and that your circumstances haven’t changed. Stay updated with your application whenever there’s a change in your situation.

You’ll receive written notice from SASSA at least three months before your certificate of life (proof of being alive) is due for renewal. This notice will detail the time and location of the review. Once the review is complete, you’ll be issued a compliance receipt.

Furthermore, a review will be conducted for applicants whose refugee status has expired.