The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has confirmed the payment schedule for social grants in October. Payments will again be staggered over several days to ease pressure on banks, ATMs and retail pay points.

October 2026 payment dates

• Older persons grant: October 2,
• Disability grant: October 5,
• Children’s grants (child support, foster care, care dependency and related grants): October 6, and
• Fourth payment day (grant reviews, eLife certification and exceptions): October 7.

Read more: Sassa confirms September grant payment dates

The social relief of distress (SRD) R370 grant follows a separate cycle and is expected to be processed in batches during the last week of the month, roughly between October 26 and 30. Exact payment dates for SRD vary by individual. Beneficiaries should check their status on the official Sassa SRD portal.

Current grant amounts

Approximate monthly amounts currently applying include:

• Older persons grant (60–74 years), disability grant and care dependency grant: R2 400,
• Older persons grant (75 years and older) and war veterans grant: R2 420,
• Foster child grant: R1 290 – R1 300,
• Child support grant: R580,
• Grant-in-aid: R580, and
• SRD rrant: R370.

Important points for beneficiaries

Your grant money remains in your account after the payment date. There is no need to rush to an ATM, retailer or pay point on the exact day. Collecting later helps avoid long queues.

Sassa pays older persons and people with disabilities first to reduce congestion for those who may face mobility challenges.

If you have been notified by SMS that your grant is under review or requires eLife certification, your payment is likely to fall on the fourth day (October 7). Complete any required processes promptly to avoid delays or suspension in future months.

Beneficiaries who want to change banking details or payment methods should visit a Sassa office with a valid ID and bank confirmation documents. Changes should be submitted before the 19th of the month to take effect in the next cycle.

Also read: Sassa unveils September grant payment dates

Useful tips

• Check your bank account or Sassa card on your scheduled payment date before visiting an office.
• Use official channels only. Be wary of anyone asking for personal details or money in connection with your grant.
• Funds can be accessed at participating retailers such as Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, Boxer and others, as well as ATMs and banks.
• Keep your contact details updated with Sassa, so you receive important SMS notifications.
• For SRD status and payment dates, use the official online portal rather than relying on social media claims.

Where to get help

Sassa toll-free customer care line: 0800 60 10 11
Email: GrantsEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
Official website: www.sassa.gov.za

Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed through official Sassa channels and to plan around their specific payment date.

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