The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed the schedule for social grant payments for the week of 5 to 7 May, providing clarity for millions of beneficiaries across the country.
In a statement, SASSA said that payments for old-age grants, disability grants, and child support grants will be made between Tuesday, 5 May and Thursday, 7 May 2026.
The agency added that beneficiaries will continue to receive the recently increased grant amounts, which came into effect in April following adjustments approved by the National Treasury.
Payment schedule for May
- Tuesday, 5 May: Old-age grants
- Wednesday, 6 May: Disability grants
- Thursday, 7 May: Child support and other remaining grants
SASSA has encouraged beneficiaries to avoid rushing to payment points on the first day, noting that funds remain available in accounts after the allocated payment date.
The staggered payment system is intended to reduce congestion at ATMs, retailers, and pay points, particularly in high-density areas.
With the May cycle now confirmed, beneficiaries are advised to ensure their banking details and cards are active to avoid delays in receiving their funds.
Increases
Following the national budget announcement, social grants increased from April 2026:
- Old Age Grant: R2,320 → R2,400 (+R80)
- War Veterans Grant: R2,340 → R2,420 (+R80)
- Disability Grant: R2,320 → R2,400 (+R80)
- Care Dependency Grant: R2,320 → R2,400 (+R80)
- Foster Care Grant: R1,250 → R1,290 (+R40)
- Child Support Grant: R560 → R580 (+R20)
- Grant-in-Aid: R560 → R580 (+R20)
- SRD Grant: remains at R370 (no increase)
Support for beneficiaries
The South African Social Security Agency has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that social grants are paid on time, urging beneficiaries to report any delays at their nearest office for assistance.
The agency emphasised that the updated payment schedule and recently announced grant increases form part of broader government efforts to support vulnerable households.
SASSA said maintaining a reliable and efficient payment system remains a priority, particularly as millions of South Africans depend on social grants for their daily needs.
The measures are also aimed at ensuring stability within the national payment system, while continuing to provide critical financial relief amid ongoing economic pressures.
| Month | Older persons | Disability | Children’s |
| May 2026 | 5 May | 6 May | 7 May |
| June 2026 | 2 June | 3 June | 4 June |
| July 2026 | 2 July | 3 July | 6 July |
| August 2026 | 4 August | 5 August | 6 August |
| September 2026 | 2 September | 3 September | 4 September |
| October 2026 | 2 October | 5 October | 6 October |
| November 2026 | 3 November | 4 November | 5 November |
| December 2026 | 2 December | 3 December | 4 December |
| January 2027 | 5 January | 6 January | 7 January |
| February 2027 | 2 February | 3 February | 4 February |
| March 2027 | 2 March | 3 March | 4 March |
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