GOOD News for 2024 SASSA Grant Increases – Big Changes Announced Today [August 22, 2024]

GOOD News for 2024 SASSA Grant Increases Across The Board

Great news is on the horizon for SASSA beneficiaries who have endured a challenging winter. As highlighted by the Finance Minister in the February budget speech, the next round of SASSA grant increases is set to commence at the start of October 2024. Minister Enoch Godongwana has confirmed that the National Treasury has approved these adjustments, though not every grant will benefit from an increase. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you need to know.

SASSA Grant Increases for 2024

Starting in October 2024, the South African Social Security Agency will implement the following grant increases:

For more details on related updates, visit the SASSA R350 Grant Payment.

Changes in Leadership and Future Plans

Following the National Elections on May 29, 2024, and with the ANC losing majority support, a new Government of National Unity (GNU) was formed. This shift resulted in the appointment of Minister Sisisi Tolashe as the new Minister of Social Development, replacing the former minister. Alongside Deputy Minister Hendriks, she is now responsible for securing funds necessary to transition the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant into a Basic Income Grant (BIG). While the ANC had committed to implementing this change by 2026, the timeline may now shift under the GNU.

Some experts argue that significant tax reforms will be necessary to fund BIG, particularly given South Africa’s high unemployment rates. For more insights into the potential future of social grants, you can check out the Universal Basic Income in 2024.

Grants That Will Not See an Increase

Unfortunately, not all government stipends will receive an increase in 2024. The following grants will remain unchanged after their last adjustment in April:

Find out more about managing your SASSA benefits at How to Check Your SASSA Grant Balance.

Further announcements from the Department of Social Development regarding potential increases for these grants are anticipated in April 2025. Meanwhile, SASSA SRD grants are expected to be extended beyond their current March 2025 deadline.

It’s important to note that SASSA grants have only been increasing by around 5% annually, a rate significantly lower than the current double-digit inflation affecting South Africa. Beneficiaries may see an additional R100 added in April 2025, although this has yet to be confirmed.

How to Apply and Important Upcoming Dates

If you believe you qualify for any of the SASSA grants mentioned, here’s how to proceed:

• Eligibility and Applications: You can find more information about eligibility and the application process for different grants through the links below:
  • SASSA Older Person Grants
  • SASSA Childcare Grants
  • SASSA War Veterans, Disability, and Childcare Dependency Grants
  • SASSA SRD

Upcoming SASSA Grant Payment Dates Until March 2025

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For more information and the latest updates on SASSA grants, click here.

FAQs

1. When will the SASSA grant increases for 2024 take effect?
The SASSA grant increases for 2024 will begin in October. Check the official SASSA website for the specific dates related to your grant.

2. Which grants will not see an increase in 2024?
Grants such as the Child Support, Foster Care, and SRD grants will remain unchanged for 2024.

3. How can I ensure I’m eligible for a SASSA grant increase?
Visit the official SASSA portal or consult with your local SASSA office to verify your eligibility and ensure that your application is up to date.