Dozens of elderly residents in Endumeni have been left reeling after the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) suspended their old-age grants in June, citing income review discrepancies.

Several pensioners told the Courier that their grants, worth R2310 monthly, were suddenly stopped, leaving them without vital support. Some say they were never notified, while others who received letters were still left in limbo.

Peacevale resident Dan (73) received a letter on 6 May requesting a full review. “I submitted all the documents and was later told I still qualified. It caused unnecessary stress,” he said.

Others claim their grants were reduced or cut without warning. Many queued in the cold at the Dundee Sassa office seeking clarity, only to be told reviews were ongoing.

Shameen Thakur-Rajbansi of the Minority Front cited Section 27 of the Constitution, saying cuts undermine basic rights to food and healthcare. “With the poverty line at R3900 per month, the R2310 grant is already inadequate,” she said.

National Council of Provinces Deputy Chair Les Govender agreed, saying, “If children support their parents, that shouldn’t disqualify them from grants.”

DA Social Development spokesperson Shontel De Boer urged those affected to complete verification at their nearest Sassa office, including Dundee, Glencoe and Dannhauser. “Take your ID, bank statements, marriage documents and proof of address. You’ll be assisted,” she advised.

Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi confirmed the agency found discrepancies through credit bureau checks. “If a beneficiary’s financial position improves, they may no longer qualify. Failure to comply with the review process could result in permanent cancellation,” he warned.

Beneficiaries are legally required to declare all income and notify Sassa of any financial changes. Those who fail to respond within 30 days risk losing their grant entirely.

To qualify for the Old Age Grant, a single applicant must earn below R8990 a month, or R17,980 if married. Assets, including outstanding debt, are also assessed.

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