The South African Social Security Agency has officially rolled out higher social grant payments from February 2026, offering essential relief to millions of vulnerable citizens. The revised amounts apply across major grant categories and reflect the government’s effort to ease pressure caused by rising living costs.
Why Social Grant Amounts Were Increased
As part of the 2026 social benefits planning process, government assessments reviewed inflation trends and everyday household expenses. While the increases remain modest, officials state they are designed to preserve the real value of grants and continue protecting those most at risk.
Older Persons Grant Receives a Modest Boost
The Older Persons Grant has been adjusted upward for 2026, ensuring senior citizens receive slightly more monthly support. The increase aims to assist with food purchases, electricity costs, transport needs, and basic healthcare expenses.
Disability Grant Payments Rise From February 2026
From February 2026, individuals receiving the Disability Grant will benefit from increased payments. This adjustment supports people unable to work due to long-term physical or mental conditions, helping them better manage daily living requirements.
Child Support Grant Adjusted for Families
Families receiving the Child Support Grant will also see an increase in 2026. Although limited in size, the adjustment is intended to ease pressure on households responsible for childcare, schooling needs, nutrition, and overall child welfare.
Updates to Foster Care and Care Dependency Grants
Both the Foster Care Grant and Care Dependency Grant will increase in 2026. These revised payments aim to provide greater financial stability to caregivers responsible for children with special needs and fostered children.
SRD Grant Administration Under the 2026 Framework
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant continues under the 2026 system with limited changes. While the grant amount remains under review, SASSA has strengthened eligibility checks and verification processes to ensure assistance reaches qualifying recipients.
Goodbye to Low Old Age Pension: Senior Monthly Payments Rise to R2,400 Starting 12 February 2026
Grant Payment Dates Remain Unchanged
Despite the payment increases, SASSA has confirmed that February 2026 payment schedules will remain unchanged. Grants will continue to be paid through the staggered system at the start of each month to prevent congestion at payment points nationwide.
Beneficiaries Advised to Update Personal and Banking Details
SASSA urges all beneficiaries to keep their personal information and bank account details up to date. With higher grant amounts, any discrepancies identified during verification could delay payments.
What the 2026 Grant Increase Means for Households
The February 2026 adjustments offer meaningful financial relief to South Africa’s most vulnerable households. While the increases may not fully offset rising expenses, they reinforce the government’s commitment to ongoing social welfare support.
Further Social Support Reviews Expected in 2026
Authorities have indicated that social grant policies will continue to be reviewed throughout 2026. Beneficiaries should expect ongoing assessments as the government works to balance fiscal responsibility with sustained protection for low-income households.
