How Do I apply for Old pension grant?

How Do I Apply for Old Pension Grant?

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The SASSA Old Age Grant is also known as the Old Age Pension. This support helps people aged 60 and older who can no longer work or don’t have other ways to earn money. It is a helping hand for seniors who need extra support during their later years.

This grant is only for South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees who are 60 years or older. To qualify, you will need to pass a means test where your income, savings, and other financial details are checked.

  • Visit a SASSA office: Head over to your nearest SASSA office to fill out the application form. If you want to apply online, you can find instructions on the SASSA services website.
  • Family or Friend Can Help: If you are too sick or old to go to the SASSA office, a trusted family member or friend can apply for you. They must take a letter from your doctor explaining why you cannot come in person.
  • SASSA Interview: You can get the application forms at the SASSA office. You must fill them out in front of a SASSA officer. You can also ask the officer for help with the form if you need it. An interview will be done to check if you qualify. After the interview, you will find out if your grant is approved.
  • Save Your Receipt: After you finish applying and complete the interview, you will get a stamped receipt with a date. Keep this receipt safe, even if your grant is not approved. It is proof that you applied.

What documents do I need for the Old Age Grant?

Here’s a list of the documents you need when applying for the older person’s grant:

  1. Your and your spouse’s ID documents or certified copies.
  2. If you don’t have an ID, SASSA will give you a form (affidavit) to fill in front of a Commissioner of Oaths not working at SASSA.
  3. A signed statement from a trusted person confirming your age and who you are.
  4. Your fingerprint is needed for processing. Without it, your application might be stopped.
  5. Proof of your marriage or relationship status.
  6. Marriage certificate if you are married.
  7. Divorce papers if your marriage ended.
  8. Proof of where you live.
  9. Income and asset details for you and your spouse.
  10. If your spouse has died in the last 5 years, you must give their death certificate.
  11. Proof of any pension you receive.
  12. Proof of income for any dependent children.
  13. Bank statements from the last three months.

How long does it take for the SASSA Old Age Grant to be processed?

The older person grant usually takes about three months. Once your application is approved, payments will begin.

What to do if your SASSA Old Age Grant is denied?

If your application is turned down and you believe it was a mistake, you can ask SASSA to look at your case again.

You have the right to appeal the decision.
This means someone higher up will check your case again.

Who can apply for the Old Age Grant?

Make sure you meet the following before applying:

  • Must be a South African citizen or a recognized refugee.
  • You must be 60 years or older.
  • Cannot be cared for in a government institution.
  • Spouse must also meet the income and asset requirements.
  • You should not already be getting another personal grant.
  • If you are single, your income must not be more than R86,280 a year, and your assets must be below R1,227,600.
  • For married couples, combined income must not be over R172,560, and total assets must not be above R2,455,200.

Understanding the means test for SASSA Old Age Grant

The “means test” checks if your financial situation qualifies you for help. It looks at your income, savings, and property. Only those truly in need can get the grant. As of April 1, 2024, these limits apply:

  • Assets limit Single people must not own assets worth more than R1,372,800.
  • Married couples must not own assets worth more than R2,745,600.
  • Income limit Single people must earn less than R96,840 a year.
  • Married couples must earn less than R193,680 a year together.

Important tips for appealing

You have only 90 days from your application date to file an appeal.
The National Department of Social Development will check your appeal.
If they agree that a mistake was made, your grant will be approved, and payments will start.

SASSA Old Age Grant payment methods

SASSA releases a payment schedule each month. Dates may change, so check for updates. You can get your grant in three ways:

Bank Account

Money will be paid into your bank account. To use this option, you must fill out a Consent Form for Bank Payment of SASSA Grant and submit the needed papers.

You will need:

  • ID card, driver’s license, or birth certificate.
  • Bank account number in your name.
  • Last three months of bank statements.
  • Signed consent form for bank payment.

You can also change your bank details by filling a form at the welfare office. After verification, payments will be moved to your new account.

Retail Stores

You can get your cash at retail stores like Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, Checkers, Usave, and Spar.

In some cases, the grant may be paid through old-age homes, care centers, or other organizations.

Why might your Old Age Grant stop?

Your grant could be suspended for different reasons:

  • Big changes in your life: Like your income or living situation changing.
  • Wrong information: If you gave incorrect details by mistake.
  • Not answering SASSA: If they ask for more information and you don’t reply.
  • Review results: If a review shows that something is wrong.
  • Mistaken approval: If SASSA finds that your grant was wrongly approved.

How to contact SASSA for older person grant questions

Keep your ID number and grant information ready when you call. Stay calm and respectful when talking to SASSA staff.

You can contact SASSA in these ways:

  1. Call SASSA Toll-Free Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11
  2. Visit your nearest SASSA office.
  3. Phone SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2322
  4. Send an email to: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
  5. WhatsApp SASSA for help: 082 046 8553

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