Updated: [5/05/2026]
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that the fifth round of social grant payments for 2026 will be disbursed during the first week of May.
Officials have confirmed the payment schedule and are urging beneficiaries not to crowd pay points on the first day, noting that funds remain safely in accounts and can be accessed at any time after they are released.
May 2026 SASSA payment schedule
- Older Persons Grant – Tuesday, 5 May 2026
- Disability Grant – Wednesday, 6 May 2026
- Children’s Grants – Thursday, 7 May 2026
Important payment guidance
SASSA reminded beneficiaries that when a scheduled payment date falls on a weekend or public holiday, it is automatically moved to the next working day.
Recipients are also advised to:
- Ensure their banking details are accurate and up to date
- Allow up to 2–3 working days for payments to reflect before making enquiries
- Contact the SASSA helpline on 0800 60 10 11 or visit a local office if delays persist
- Avoid unnecessary queues by collecting funds after the official payment date
Funds remain available in accounts, meaning there is no need to rush on the first day of payment.
Discover: SASSA SRD STATUS CHECK 2026:How to Check Your R370 Grant Status
Meanwhile, Authorities have uncovered a fraudulent scheme targeting grant recipients, prompting swift action from the South African Social Security Agency in South Africa’s Eastern Cape.
Law enforcement officials arrested 15 individuals linked to 1Life Insurance after they allegedly posed as agents running a “SASSA promotion” in Khulile Location, within the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality.
According to officials, the suspects conducted unauthorized insurance sales while falsely claiming to be working in partnership with the agency, misleading beneficiaries into signing up for products under false pretenses.
SASSA has strongly distanced itself from the operation, stressing that it does not authorize any private companies to sell insurance or financial products using its name.
A criminal case has been opened under the South African Social Security Agency Act 9 of 2004, which prohibits misrepresentation of association with the agency.
The development comes as a warning to beneficiaries to remain cautious, verify official identification, and report suspicious approaches, as authorities intensify efforts to protect vulnerable citizens from exploitation.
Investigation into queue corruption claims
It follows a recent investigation by SASSA into reports of illegal activity outside some of its offices, where vulnerable grant recipients are allegedly being exploited.
The agency says some individuals are reportedly selling places in queues, forcing desperate applicants to pay for access to waiting spots.
A spokesperson confirmed that one office in KwaZulu-Natal has already been identified as part of the probe.
“We have received reports that in some cases people are selling seats or positions in queues, particularly targeting elderly beneficiaries,” said SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi.
He added that two investigations are underway — one to determine how widespread the practice is, and another to assess whether there is any possible involvement or collusion by SASSA staff.
The agency says findings from the investigations are expected within a month.
SASSA has also recently intensified its efforts to combat fraud, with thousands of grants already suspended or terminated as part of ongoing verification processes.
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