The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has released an explainer on what a means test is and how it affects eligibility for social grants, alongside updated grant values and income thresholds effective from April 1, 2026.

A means test is a financial assessment that checks a person’s and their spouse’s income and assets against set limits to determine if they qualify for a grant.

If an applicant’s income and assets fall below the threshold, they may qualify. If they are above the limit, the application will not be approved. The process ensures that grants go only to those who qualify.

For married applicants, both spouses’ income and assets are taken into account. The test also determines the amount of the grant a person can receive based on their financial situation.

The only grant not subject to a means test is the foster child grant.

Updated grant amounts and limits for 2026:

• The older person’s grant will increase to R2 400 per month, or R2 420 for those aged 75 and older.

The monthly income limit is R9 350 for single applicants and R18 700 for married applicants.

Asset limits are set at R1 584 000 for single people and R3 168 000 for married couples.

• The disability grant and war veteran’s grant will both pay R2 420 per month, with the same income and asset thresholds as the older person’s grant.

• The child support grant rises to R580 per month, with a monthly income limit of R5 800 for single caregivers and R11 600 for married caregivers.

• The child support grant top-up is set at R290, while the care dependency grant will be R2 400 per month.

• The Covid-19 SRD grant remains at R370 per month, with an income threshold of R624.

The goal of the means test is to ensure fairness and that limited resources reach the people who need them most.

For more information, contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 or via email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za