‘The R2 400 is just an insult’: Pensioner speaks out on SASSA grant

A pensioner in Limpopo who receives the Older Person’s Grant says his monthly SASSA payment does not cover his household’s basic needs.

The grant recipient, who asked not to be named in this article, has received the grant for three years. He lives in a shared family home where three to five people depend on his income, and he uses his grant for a mix of essential expenses.

Despite this, he regularly struggles to make ends meet. He runs out of money before the month ends.

SASSA grant falls short for pensioner

The pensioner said the cost of living and rising food prices are his biggest financial concern. When asked what he would change about SASSA, he chose an increase in the grant amount.

“SASSA must stop harassing and stopping us when we try to find other income streams because the R2 400 is just an insult, period,” he said.

The Older Person’s Grant increased by R80 to R2 400 per month in April 2026, following Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Budget Speech.

The grant recipient has experience in administrative and office work. He is currently unemployed and not looking for work.

Payment problems and poor communication

The pensioner said he has experienced a late or missing grant payment. He rated SASSA’s communication with recipients as very poor.

He receives his grant through a bank deposit. He has never applied for additional government support because he did not know what else was available.

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