SASSA Implements Stricter Means Tests in 2024
In an effort to curb wastage within the social grant system, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is introducing stricter means tests in 2024. This initiative follows revelations of irregular payments, including millions of Rands disbursed to deceased individuals over several years.
The stricter means tests aim to ensure that beneficiaries qualify legitimately for their grants and to prevent misuse of funds. Below are key points regarding the new measures:
SASSA Grant Payment New Amount 2024 Has the COVID SRD-350
1. Background and Purpose:
- The decision to implement stricter means tests stems from the February Budget Speech, which announced grant increases for Older Persons and Children’s grants.
- Amendments to the recovery process for irregular payments were gazetted by Minister of Social Development Lindiwe Zulu in January 2024.
2. Criteria for Qualification:
- Beneficiaries will undergo means tests to determine their eligibility for grants. For example:
- For SASSA Child Support grants, annual income must not exceed R105,600 if married or R52,800 if single.
- For SASSA Older Persons grants, monthly income limits are set at R8,070 for singles and R16,140 for married individuals. Asset limitations also apply.
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How to Update Your SASSA Grant Application in 2024
3. Other Reasons for Exclusion:
- SASSA will closely monitor qualifying criteria and may suspend grants under various circumstances, including failure to collect grants, beneficiary’s demise, institutional care, lack of cooperation in grant reviews, or misrepresentation of means leading to fraud.
4. Appeal Process:
- Beneficiaries have the right to appeal any exclusion to the Department of Social Development within 90 days of suspension.
Upcoming Payment Dates for 2024:
- Detailed payment dates for Older Persons Grants, Disability Grants, and Children’s Grants are provided for each month from May to December 2024.
there a closing date for SRD Grant applications
These measures underscore SASSA’s commitment to ensuring the efficient and fair distribution of social grants to those in genuine need while safeguarding against misuse and irregularities.