SASSA Grants Increase April 2024 – Raised Amounts Revealed
In a recent statement, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana acknowledged the financial challenges faced by nearly 19 million South Africans dependent on social grants amidst rising living costs. He emphasized that within fiscal constraints, the government has implemented necessary adjustments to provide relief to grant recipients.
Context and Timing of the SASSA Grant Increases
Last year’s grant adjustments were announced in October 2023, with subsequent increments scheduled every six months. This periodic review aims to alleviate financial pressures for recipients relying solely on SASSA social grants.
SASSA Social Grants Increase 2024
The 2024 adjustments across various SASSA grants reflect considerations of inflation and escalating living expenses. These increments are detailed below:
SASSA Old Age Grant Increase 2024
Old Age Grant Increase (60 to 75):
- Effective from April 2024, the Old Age Grant for individuals aged 60 to 75 will rise from R2,090 to R2,180.
- An additional increment of R10 is slated for October 2024, bringing the total to R2,190.
Old Age Grant Increase (75 and Above):
- Starting April 2024, beneficiaries aged 75 and above will receive an increased grant of R2,200, up from R2,110.
- This amount will further increase by R10 in October 2024, reaching R2,210.
SASSA Disability Grant Increase 2024
- The Disability Grant will increase to R2,180 from R2,090 in April 2024.
- An additional R10 increment in October 2024 will bring the total monthly amount to R2,190.
SASSA Care Dependency Grant Increase 2024
- Starting April 2024, the Care Dependency Grant will rise to R2,180 from R2,090.
- A further R10 increase in October 2024 will set the monthly grant amount at R2,190.
SASSA War Veteran’s Grant Increase 2024
- The War Veteran’s Grant will increase to R2,200 from R2,110 in April 2024.
- Subsequently, it will rise by R10 in October 2024 to R2,210.
SASSA Child Support Grant Increase 2024
- Effective April 1st, 2024, the Child Support Grant will increase from R510 to R530, reflecting a R20 raise.
- The top-up amount for children remains unchanged at R250, making the total monthly grant amount R780.
SASSA Foster Child Grant Increase 2024
- The Foster Child Grant will increase from R1,130 to R1,180 starting April 2024, reflecting an increment of R50.
SASSA SRD R350 Grant Increase 2024
- The SRD R350 Grant, increased for the first time since its inception, will rise to R370 from April 1st, 2024, reflecting a R20 increase (5.7%).
Summary of SASSA Grant Payment Increases 2024
Grant | March 2024 | April 2024 | October 2024 | Total Increase |
Old Age Grant (60 to 75) | R2,090 | R2,180 | R2,190 | R100 (4.8%) |
Old Age Grant (75 & Above) | R2,110 | R2,200 | R2,210 | R100 (4.7%) |
Disability Grant | R2,090 | R2,180 | R2,190 | R100 (4.8%) |
Child Support Grant | R510 | R530 | – | R20 (3.9%) |
War Veterans Grant | R2,110 | R2,200 | R2,210 | R100 (4.7%) |
Care Dependency Grant | R2,090 | R2,180 | R2,190 | R100 (4.8%) |
Foster Child Grant | R1,130 | R1,180 | – | R50 (4.4%) |
SRD R350 Grant | R350 | R370 | – | R20 (5.7%) |
Budget Allocation and Government Commitment
Over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period, the government has allocated R1.17 trillion for social grants and welfare services. This substantial allocation reflects a commitment to supporting vulnerable demographics, including women, youth, and individuals with disabilities.
Budget Breakdown for Social Grants
- The allocated budget for social grants (excluding the COVID-19 SRD Grant) in 2023/24 is R217.1 billion, projected to increase to R259.3 billion by 2026/27.
- The number of social grant recipients (excluding SRD Grant beneficiaries) is anticipated to rise from 18.8 million to 19.7 million by 2026/27.
Social Impact and Welfare Initiatives
The prioritization of social welfare initiatives underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing human dignity and resilience. These efforts not only alleviate immediate financial burdens but also empower individuals and families to achieve greater financial stability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the SASSA Grant Increase for April 2024 marks a significant step towards supporting millions of South Africans grappling with economic uncertainties. Through carefully calibrated adjustments, the government aims to mitigate the impact of inflation and rising living costs on vulnerable populations. Despite fiscal constraints, these increases demonstrate a proactive approach to safeguarding social welfare and promoting collective prosperity. By ensuring adequate support through enhanced grants, the government underscores its commitment to fostering resilience and dignity among all citizens.