SASSA Boost Alert : South Africans relying on social grants have a reason to celebrate as the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed an additional payout for certain beneficiaries in the final week of May. This unexpected financial top-up is part of a government initiative to provide relief amid rising living costs and food inflation. If you or your loved ones receive any form of SASSA support, this article explains who will receive more money, when, and how to check your payment status.
Why SASSA Is Issuing Extra Money This May
In a move to assist vulnerable groups, SASSA is rolling out additional grant disbursements in late May. These boosts are not part of regular annual increases, but a temporary uplift announced to address urgent household needs and fuel increases in key sectors.
Key reasons behind the May SASSA top-up include:
- Surging fuel and food prices affecting low-income households
- Implementation of new fiscal relief measures post-budget
- Redistribution of surplus funds from unclaimed grants
- Alignment with provincial relief programs in May
The extra funds will be automatically added to qualifying beneficiaries’ May 2025 payments.
Who Will Get the SASSA Boost – Full List of Eligible Grants
SASSA has listed specific categories of beneficiaries eligible for the additional May payout. These are primarily individuals who receive grants for older persons, disability, and child support. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Older Persons Grant
- Disability Grant
- Child Support Grant
- War Veterans Grant
- Foster Child Grant
- Care Dependency Grant
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant – limited cases
Below is a table outlining the extra amounts to be paid alongside the standard May grants:
| Grant Type | Regular Amount (May) | Extra Boost (May End) | Total in May |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | R2,180 | R250 | R2,430 |
| Older Persons (75+) | R2,200 | R250 | R2,450 |
| Disability Grant | R2,180 | R250 | R2,430 |
| Child Support Grant | R530 | R100 | R630 |
| Foster Child Grant | R1,180 | R200 | R1,380 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,180 | R250 | R2,430 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,200 | R250 | R2,450 |
| SRD Grant (selected cases) | R370 | R100 | R470 |
Note: The amounts vary based on the latest SASSA notification and are subject to eligibility verification.
When Will the Extra Payments Be Made?
The extra SASSA payments are scheduled to begin in the last week of May, specifically from May 27 to May 31, 2025. These will be disbursed in phases, alongside the regular month-end grant schedule.
Tentative Payment Schedule:
- May 27, 2025 – Older Persons & War Veterans
- May 28, 2025 – Disability Grants
- May 29, 2025 – Child Support & Foster Care
- May 30-31, 2025 – Remaining Beneficiaries (SRD, late processing cases)
Make sure your banking details or SASSA card is active to avoid any delay in receiving your funds.
How to Check If You Are Getting Extra SASSA Money
Beneficiaries can easily check their grant boost status using the following official methods:
- Visit the SASSA SRD Portal: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Check via WhatsApp: Send “Status” to 082 046 8553
- Use the SASSA USSD Code: Dial 1203210# or 12069277#
- Visit nearest SASSA office with your ID
- Call SASSA Call Centre at 0800 60 10 11
Ensure you have your South African ID number and grant type details when checking your status.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Will I receive the boost automatically?
Yes. If you qualify, the extra amount will be included in your May payment without needing to apply again.
Q2: Is this a permanent increase?
No, this is a temporary relief payout for the end of May. However, future top-ups may be announced in upcoming months.
Q3: What if I don’t receive the boost even though I qualify?
You should contact SASSA immediately via the helpline or visit a regional office with your ID.
Q4: Does the SRD R370 grant also get a boost?
Yes, but only selected SRD beneficiaries will receive the R100 top-up, based on vulnerability scoring.
Q5: Can I collect the grant in cash?
Yes, using your SASSA card at retail stores (Pick n Pay, Boxer, Checkers, Shoprite, etc.) or withdraw from ATMs.
SASSA Contact Details for Payment-Related Queries
If you experience delays or discrepancies in your payment, reach out to SASSA via these verified contact options:
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Toll-Free Helpline | 0800 60 10 11 |
| Email Support | [email protected] |
| Website | https://www.sassa.gov.za |
| SRD Status Portal | https://srd.sassa.gov.za |
| WhatsApp Support | 082 046 8553 |
| Facebook (Official) | @OfficialSASSA |
| Twitter (Official) | @OfficialSASSA |
Tips for Beneficiaries to Ensure Smooth Payment
- Keep your banking info updated on the SASSA portal
- Always check payment date SMS alerts
- Avoid giving your SASSA card to others
- Visit your nearest post office or pay point if your card is inactive
- Monitor official SASSA social media for real-time announcements
Important Notes for SRD and Special Grant Beneficiaries
SASSA has confirmed that while SRD payments remain at R370, only vulnerable beneficiaries selected by algorithmic scoring will receive the R100 top-up this May. You don’t need to reapply, but your income verification must be clear.
This May, SASSA’s decision to offer a temporary grant boost is welcome news for millions of South Africans. Whether you’re a pensioner, a caregiver, or a parent, ensure your bank account or SASSA card is ready to receive the boosted payment. Keep checking your grant status through official channels and report any issues promptly. While this is a once-off top-up for now, it shows the government’s intent to support those most in need during economic uncertainty.
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