The (SASSA) has launched several significant steps to ensure beneficiaries receive seamless support as South Africa prepares for the holiday season. The early payout for (SRD) awards, intended to offer prompt financial support during excessive spending, is one of the main features. SASSA has also implemented a new digital payment mechanism to improve the ease and security of grant money access.
The early SRD grant distribution schedule aims to assist recipients in meeting the higher costs usually related to the holidays. SRD payments will be handled from December 17 to December 23, 2024, to guarantee that beneficiaries get the money they require before the Christmas celebrations. This is a component of SASSA’s continuous effort to assist marginalized groups by improving the responsiveness of financial access to their requirements.
The new digital payment method provides grant recipients with customizable services and various financial instruments in addition to the early payout. Beneficiaries can obtain loans, insurance, and easy payment choices through collaborations with EasyPay Everywhere, offering a comprehensive approach to money management. SASSA wants to make financial services available to everyone, particularly those living in distant places, by combining digital accounts, national branches, and mobile agents.
Festive Season SASSA Grants Payment Schedule:
The holiday payment schedule for specific awards, such as the SRD, Older Persons, Disability, and Children’s grants, has been made public by SASSA. These benefits are scheduled to help recipients during the peak holiday shopping season. The payment schedule for January 2025 and December 2024 is shown below.
| Grant Type | December 2024 Payment Date | January 2025 Payment Date |
| Older Persons | Wednesday, 3 December 2024 | Friday, 3 January 2025 |
| Disability | Thursday, 4 December 2024 | Monday, 6 January 2025 |
| Children’s Grants | Friday, 5 December 2024 | Tuesday, 7 January 2025 |
To help recipients meet the financial obligations of the holiday season, SASSA has also planned early payments for SRD awards between December 17 and December 23, 2024.
Grant Amounts for 2024:
Additionally, SASSA has revised the payout levels for 2024, giving recipients some much-needed financial respite. The updated award amounts are listed below:
| Grant Type | Amount (R) |
| Older Persons Grant | R2,190 (Under 75) / R2,210 (75+) |
| Disability Grant | R2,190 |
| Child Support Grant | R530 |
| Child Support Grant (Top-Up) | R780 (R530 + R250) |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,180 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,190 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,210 |
| Social Relief of Distress (SRD) | R370 |
These modifications help ease the strain many people experience from the expense of living while guaranteeing that grant recipients receive sufficient assistance during difficult economic times.
Features of the New Digital Payment System:
- Beneficiaries may now conveniently access their cash by opening an online account. This account provides digital money management and access to extra services like insurance and loans.
- Loans and Insurance Services: Previously unavailable to many grant recipients, SASSA beneficiaries may now apply for loans and access insurance services thanks to the cooperation with EasyPay Everywhere.
- Branch Network: SASSA has established 230 branches around the country in addition to mobile agents in outlying areas to help beneficiaries who might find it difficult to adjust to the digital transition.
Benefits of the EasyPay Everywhere Card:
For grant beneficiaries, the EasyPay Everywhere card provides convenience and flexibility:
- ATM Withdrawals: For a small cost of R10, withdraw money from any ATM.
- Free Retail Transactions: There are no additional fees when you swipe your card at participating stores.
- Utility Payments: Use a USSD code (1203737#) to buy energy, water, and airtime conveniently.
Regardless of location or level of technical proficiency, these features guarantee that recipients may effectively manage their assets.
SASSA Contact Information for Assistance:
Beneficiaries can utilize the following contact information with any concerns or inquiries about award payments:
- Grant Enquiries Email: [email protected] Head Office: 012 400 2322 Toll-Free Call Center: 0800 60 10 11