Millions of South Africans receiving social assistance will see higher payouts from April 2026 following new allocations announced in the national budget.
In a media statement issued on 26 February 2026, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) confirmed that social grant amounts will increase for the 2026/27 financial year after Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana tabled the national budget.
SASSA CEO Themba Matlou welcomed the announcement, describing the increases as a vital step in supporting vulnerable citizens during ongoing economic pressures.
“Social grants provide a lifeline to the most vulnerable in society. This much-needed increase will help cushion our valued beneficiaries against economic hardships,” said Matlou.
R292.8 Billion Allocated to Social Grants
During the 2026 Budget Speech, government allocated R292.8 billion to social grants for the financial year, reinforcing its commitment to poverty alleviation and social protection.
According to SASSA, the following increases will take effect from April 2026:
🔹 Older Persons, Disability & Care Dependency Grants
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Increase of R80
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New amount: R2 400
🔹 War Veterans Grant
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Increase of R80
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New amount: R2 420
🔹 Foster Child Grant
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Increase of R40 in April 2026 (to R1 290)
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Additional R10 increase in October 2026 (to R1 300)
🔹 Child Support Grant & Grant-in-Aid
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Increase of R20
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New amount: R580
SRD Grant to Continue
SASSA also confirmed that the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant will continue in its current form over the year ahead.
Matlou noted that the SRD grant remains a critical safety net for unemployed individuals of working age, providing financial support to those without other forms of income.
“We are also working tirelessly to connect social grant beneficiaries with economic opportunities, thus ensuring sustainable livelihoods,” he added.
What This Means for Beneficiaries
The increases, while modest, come at a crucial time as many households continue to face high food prices, rising transport costs, and general cost-of-living pressures.
For pensioners, caregivers, and unemployed South Africans, the additional funds may help ease monthly financial strain.
With nearly 19 million permanent grant beneficiaries and millions more accessing temporary relief, the 2026/27 budget allocation underscores the scale of South Africa’s social protection system.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to monitor official communication from SASSA regarding payment schedules and any further updates.
Also Read
SASSA March 2026 Payment Dates Announced: What Beneficiaries Need to Know
SASSA Announces COVID-19 SRD Grant Payment Dates for February 2026
