If you’re receiving the SASSA Disability Grant or planning to apply in 2025, there are some important updates you need to know. With stricter rules and new verification systems in place, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is tightening the eligibility criteria.

That means while many people will continue receiving support, others could face suspension or cancellation if they don’t meet the new standards. Let’s break it all down so you know exactly where you stand.

Overview

The SASSA Disability Grant helps South Africans who are physically or mentally disabled and can’t financially support themselves. It’s a crucial safety net for thousands who rely on it for basic living expenses, transport, medical costs, and food.

In 2025, SASSA has rolled out new checks and reassessment policies to ensure the right people are receiving the grant. The focus is now on long-term eligibility, fraud prevention, and regular updates of personal and medical information.

Eligible

Not everyone will lose their grant in 2025. If you’ve already passed the necessary assessments and you’re following the rules, your payments will continue without issues. Here’s what keeps you eligible:

• You’ve been officially diagnosed with a permanent disability
• You completed and passed your last medical reassessment
• Your ID, banking, and contact information is current
• You earn below the allowed income and asset thresholds
• You are a South African citizen, refugee, or permanent resident with valid documentation

If you were reassessed in 2024 and approved, you’re likely safe—at least for now.

Disqualified

Unfortunately, some people could be cut off in 2025. Here’s who’s most at risk:

• Your condition has improvedand you can work again
• You miss reassessment appointments
• Your income or assets now exceed SASSA’s limits
• You don’t respond to verification calls or SMS
• Your banking or contact information is outdated

SASSA is now enforcing these rules more strictly. If your grant is suspended, you’ll receive written notification—and you’ll have 90 days to appeal.

Payments

SASSA typically pays the Disability Grant in the first week of each month. Here’s what the 2025 payment schedule looks like so far:

These dates may shift due to public holidays or technical delays, so it’s smart to check your status regularly using the online portal or SMS options.

Limits

To qualify or stay on the grant, you need to pass a means test. This checks how much money and assets you have. Here are the 2025 thresholds:

If your income or asset value goes above these numbers, your application could be declined or your current grant could be stopped.

Status

Want to make sure everything’s still good with your grant? Use these tools to check:

• Website:
• SMS: Send your ID number to 082 046 8553
• Phone: Call the toll-free SASSA line: 0800 60 10 11
• In person: Visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID and grant reference

Checking your status regularly helps you avoid surprises.

Appeals

If your grant is suspended and you believe it was a mistake, you have every right to appeal. Here’s how:

1. Wait for the official suspension notice from SASSA
2. Submit an appeal within 90 days
3. Provide updated medical evidence and financial documents
4. Appeal in person at your nearest SASSA office or via legal aid centres
5. Follow up weekly for updates until you receive a decision

Appeals don’t take long if you provide the correct paperwork upfront. Stay organized, keep records, and respond to communication promptly.

FAQs