The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has temporarily suspended old-age grant payments for more than 210,000 pensioners, citing concerns over undeclared income and assets.
The move forms part of an ongoing compliance and eligibility verification process aimed at ensuring social grants reach only those who truly qualify.
According to SASSA, a recent review — conducted in collaboration with credit bureaus and other data sources — flagged beneficiaries who may have exceeded the income and asset thresholds set under the Social Assistance Act.
Why Were Grants Suspended?
Under South African law, all social grant beneficiaries must:
-
Fully declare all sources of income and assets at the time of application.
-
Report any changes in financial circumstances, including informal income, family support, or business activity.
Beneficiaries who failed to comply with these conditions were automatically flagged for review, resulting in the temporary suspension of their June 2025 payments.
“We are not cancelling grants permanently,” said a SASSA spokesperson. “We are simply ensuring that only eligible South Africans benefit from these limited resources.”
What Should Affected Pensioners Do?
All affected pensioners have been notified via SMS or letter and are expected to visit their nearest SASSA office within 30 days to update their personal and financial information.
Pensioners are advised to bring the following:
-
South African ID
-
Recent bank statements
-
Any proof of additional income (such as rental earnings or business receipts)
-
Documentation related to any other assets
Failure to comply within the stipulated time frame may result in permanent suspension or cancellation of the grant.
July Payments Proceeded for Verified Recipients
Despite the June disruption, July 2025 grant payments began on schedule, with verified pensioners receiving their funds on Tuesday, 2 July.
SASSA has indicated that once reviews are completed, back payments for missed months will be issued to those cleared during the process.
A Step Toward Transparency
This large-scale verification is part of SASSA’s broader effort to tighten fraud prevention, improve transparency, and make sure the grant system remains sustainable and fair.
“While it may cause short-term disruption, this review helps protect the integrity of our social assistance programs,” said the Department of Social Development.
If you’re a pensioner and received a notice from SASSA, don’t delay — visit your nearest office as soon as possible to avoid losing your grant.
This process is essential to ensure continued support for South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens.
Also Read
SASSA July 2025 Payment Dates Confirmed: What Beneficiaries Need to Know
SASSA July 2025 Grant Dates – Child Support Payment May Shift