Learn about the Older Persons Grant in South Africa, including requirements, means test, application process, and payment details. Get all the information you need to apply for this government grant.
Introduction:
The Older Persons Grant, also known as the old age pension grant, is a payment from the government of South Africa to people residing in South Africa over the age of 60 years.
Requirements for the SASSA Older Persons Grant:
To apply for the SASSA Older Persons Grant, applicants must meet certain criteria, including being a South African citizen, a permanent resident, or a refugee, residing within South Africa, and being over 60 years old. Additionally, applicants and their spouse must meet the requirements of a means test, which considers their income and assets. Applicants must not have assets valued at over R1 313 400 if single or R2 626 800 if married, and must not be receiving care in a state institution or any other social grant for themselves.
Means Test for the SASSA Older Persons Grant:
A means test is a method of evaluating an applicant’s income and assets to determine whether they qualify for a grant. To pass the means test, single applicants must not earn more than R92 520 a year, while married applicants must not earn more than a combined income of R185 040 a year (as of October 2022). Applicants who are married will have half of the annual joint income taken into consideration.
Applying for the SASSA Older Persons Grant:
To apply for the SASSA Older Persons Grant, applicants should visit a SASSA office or apply online if possible. If applicants are unable to visit the SASSA office, they may have a family member or friend apply for them. Applicants must complete the application form in the presence of a SASSA officer who can assist them if necessary. After the application form is completed, applicants will receive a dated stamped receipt, which they must keep as proof of application. The application process is free.
Documents Required When Applying for an Older Persons Grant:
Applicants must take along several documents when applying for the Old Persons Grant through SASSA. These include an ID document, refugee status permit and 13-digit refugee ID if applicable, proof of marital status, proof of residence, proof of income or dividends, proof of assets, proof of private pension, three months’ bank statements, and unemployment insurance fund or discharge certificate from the previous employer if they were employed.
Older Persons Grant Outcome:
Applications for the Older Persons Grant are assessed within three months, and applicants are informed in writing whether their application was approved or rejected. If rejected, SASSA will provide a reason for the rejection. Applicants may request SASSA to reassess their application or appeal to the Minister of Social Development if their application is rejected after reconsideration.
Older Persons Grant Payments: After approval, applicants will start receiving payments within three months of applying, and payments will be backdated to the application date. Applicants can check the next SASSA payment date online.
HOW TO CONTACT SASSA REGARDING OLDER PERSONS GRANT APPLICATION QUERIES
If you have any queries regarding your Older Persons Grant application, you can contact SASSA through the following channels:
- SASSA toll-free helpline: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
You can also visit your nearest SASSA office for assistance with your application.
CONCLUSION
The Older Persons Grant is an important source of financial assistance for elderly South Africans who meet the eligibility criteria. By meeting the requirements and completing the application process, eligible individuals can receive monthly payments to help them meet their basic needs. If you have any questions or concerns about the application process or your eligibility, don’t hesitate to contact SASSA for assistance.
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