How to Apply for SASSA Pension
If you are a senior citizen from South Africa, it could provide you with much-needed financial relief if you apply for the SASSA Old Age Pension. The grant helps elderly South Africans who have no monthly income.
In this article, we will go through how you can apply for the SASSA pension, its benefits, eligibility criteria and required documents.
What Is the SASSA Pension (Old Age Grant)?
This is a simple Old Age Grant that SASSA provides in cash, which is meant to be disbursed to all South Africans aged 60 or over. It’s aimed at their living costs. The amount disbursed every month in the year 2025 is R2,180 and varies slightly if you are above 75.
Who Qualifies for the SASSA Pension?
The following are the qualification for the SASSA Old Age Pension:
- Must be a South African citizen, resident, or refugee.
- Age of 60 or above.
- Must not be receiving any other social grant for yourself.
- Must not be maintained or cared for in a state institution (e.g., old age homes).
- Must pass the means test (income and asset evaluation).
Means Test Limits (2025):
| Applicant Type | Income Limit Per Year | Asset Limit |
| Single | R96,840 | R1,372,800 |
| Married (combined) | R193,680 | R2,745,600 |
Documents Required for SASSA Pension Application
You must have certain documents before you apply for the SASSA pension and you can bring them in person when you visit your nearest SASSA office:
- Barcoded South African ID (or refugee status ID)
- Proof of residence (not older than 3 months)
- Bank statements for the last 3 months
- Proof of income or dividends, if applicable
- Marriage certificate (if married)
- Spouse’s ID and income proof
- Divorce decree (if divorced)
- Death certificate of spouse (if widowed)
- SASSA Annexure C form (if unemployed, filled by a commissioner of oaths)
How to Apply for SASSA Pension Step-by-Step
Applying for the SASSA pension is quite straight forward and the steps are listed below:
1. Visit the Nearest SASSA Office
Applications must be made in person. You can find all the information regarding all the SASSA offices here.
2. Get Help from a SASSA Official
If you’re disabled or too ill to apply yourself, a family member or friend can apply on your behalf with an official doctor’s note.
3. Submit All Required Documents
Ensure all documents are complete and valid. A SASSA official will help complete the application form.
4. Get a Receipt and Reference Number
After your application, you’ll receive a stamped receipt or reference number. Make sure you keep this safe to check your status later.
How Long Does It Take to Process the SASSA Pension Application?
It takes more then 3 months for the application to be approved. If successful, you will receive back payments from the date of application.
How to Check SASSA Pension Application Status
You can check the status using the following methods:
- Online: You can do a SASSA Status Check easily on our homepage where you will get live updates regarding your status.
- USSD: Dial *134*7737# from your phone
- WhatsApp: Send “Status” to 082 046 8553
- Call: SASSA toll-free number 0800 60 10 11
Payment Methods for SASSA Old Age Pension
There are many different ways you can get your pension paid such as:
- Direct deposit to your bank account
- SASSA Gold Card (withdraw at ATMs or stores)
- Cash pay points (rural areas)
Tip: SASSA recommends using a bank account for faster and safer payments.
What If My Application Is Rejected?
If your application is denied, you have the right to:
- Request a written reason for rejection
- Lodge an appeal with the Ministry of Social Development
- Appeals must be submitted within 90 days
Can I Apply Online for the SASSA Pension?
Currently, the Old Age Grant cannot be applied for online. All applications must be submitted in person at the SASSA office. However, you can download and prepare the necessary forms online at sassa.gov.za.
Common Reasons for Application Delay or Rejection
- Missing or expired documents
- Failing the means test
- Applying while receiving another grant
- Incorrect or outdated banking details
- Not meeting age requirement
FAQ
Can I receive the SASSA pension if I’m still working?
Yes, if your total income is below the means test threshold.
Will the grant stop if I move into an old age home?
If it’s a government institution, the grant may be reduced to 25%. It will be reinstated once you leave.
Do I need to renew the grant?
No. But SASSA conducts periodic reviews and may request updated documents.
Can my grant be suspended?
Yes. Reasons can include:
- Providing false info
- Failing to cooperate during reviews
- Changes in financial status
Contact SASSA for Assistance
- Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
Final Thoughts
Applying for the SASSA Old Age Pension is straightforward if you meet the requirements and have all documents ready. Make sure to submit everything in person, follow up on your status, and choose a secure payment method.
