As South Africa welcomes the New Year, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed the Old Age Grant payment schedule for January 2026, bringing critical support to seniors and vulnerable citizens across the country. After a longer break between the December and January pay cycles, eligible beneficiaries can expect payments early in the first week of January..
January 2026 Payment Dates for Old Age Grants
For January, SASSA has scheduled grant payments as follows:
Old Age Grants: Tuesday, 6 January 2026
Disability Grants: Wednesday, 7 January 2026
Children’s and Other Grants: Thursday, 8 January 2026
The 6th of January marks the first major disbursement of social grants for the year, making it crucial for beneficiaries to mark their calendars and prepare accordingly. The slight delay this month is due to the calendar alignment, where the first Tuesday falls later than usual, extending the gap since the last payment of 2025.
Grant Amounts for January 2026
SASSA grants aim to provide essential financial support for older citizens and those with limited means. As of January 2026, the monthly payment amounts are:
Old Age Grant (ages 60–74): R2,320
Old Age Grant (ages 75 and above): R2,340
Disability Grant: R2,320
War Veterans Grant: R2,340
Child Support Grant: R560
Foster Care Grant: R1,250
SRD Grant: R370 (processed later in the month)
These amounts help older South Africans cover basic living expenses, including food, utilities, transport, and healthcare costs. The slightly higher payout for beneficiaries aged 75 and older acknowledges increased age-related expenses.
Why January Payments May Feel “Late”
In previous years, SASSA payments typically started in the first few days of January. However, due to the way weekends and public holidays align, January’s payment dates have shifted slightly later in the week. Despite the delay, SASSA reassures beneficiaries that funds will remain available for collection after the scheduled dates, and there’s no need to rush to withdraw immediately on the first day.
Eligibility & Planning Ahead
To receive the Old Age Grant, applicants must meet SASSA’s means and asset test, which ensures grants reach those in genuine need, based on income and asset thresholds. Eligibility also requires South African citizenship or permanent residency and proof of residence within the country.
Beneficiaries should check that their personal information is up to date, including banking details and contact information, to avoid delays. If information changes, visiting a SASSA office in person is necessary, as online updates are not available for many permanent grants.