Will SASSA pensioners get a grant increase in 2027? Finance Minister responds

Get the latest stories, features, and updates from Bona Magazine in your inbox.

Thank you for subscribing. We're so glad you're here — keep an eye on your inbox for the latest from Bona.

148 14 Copy link WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) Email Share… South African pensioners hoping for more money in their monthly SASSA payments will have to wait until February 2027 to find out whether the Older Persons Grant will increase.

Also see: SASSA confirms December 2026 grant dates, issues important warning to beneficiaries

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has reportedly confirmed that no final decision has been made on the next round of social grant adjustments. Government is still considering the proposed increases as part of its 2027/28 budget process, taking into account available funds and competing spending priorities.

The announcement will be important for older South Africans who rely on the grant to cover everyday expenses, particularly as food, electricity, transport and healthcare costs continue to put pressure on household budgets.

Godongwana provided the update in a written parliamentary response to uMkhonto weSizwe Party MP Adil Nchabeleng, who asked whether government was considering a bigger increase to the Older Persons Grant.

The minister said the proposed adjustments were still being assessed through the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) process and would require Cabinet approval before being announced alongside the national budget in February. There is therefore no confirmed new pension amount, despite claims that may be circulating on social media.

Reportedly, Godongwana also disputed claims that annual increases to the Older Persons Grant are generally limited to between R10 and R20. He pointed out that beneficiaries received an additional R130 per month in 2025/26, representing a 5.9% increase. In 2026/27, the grant increased by R85 per month, or 3.7%.

However, he explained that inflation is only one factor considered when determining adjustments.

“While social grant increases are informed by inflation trends, including projected CPI and food price inflation, the level of adjustments ultimately depends on the fiscal resources available and prevailing economic conditions,” said Godongwana.

Also see: Fraud crackdown: SASSA dismisses 65 officials

The government aims to protect the purchasing power of grants while balancing support for vulnerable households against other public spending commitments.

Pensioners should also distinguish between annual grant increases and individual eligibility reviews.

SASSA conducts reviews to establish whether beneficiaries still qualify for assistance, including checking changes in income, employment and marital circumstances. Beneficiaries who receive review notices should respond to the agency’s requirements, as failing to cooperate can result in suspension.

Changes to payment dates are also separate from decisions about grant increases. November’s payment schedule, for example, was brought forward ahead of the local government elections, with older persons receiving their grants on 30 October.

Until the government announces its decision, existing grant amounts remain in place. Beneficiaries should keep their personal and banking details updated and rely on official SASSA announcements for information.

Pensioners should also be wary of scams promising early access to a higher grant or asking for banking details, PINs or one-time passwords. No one needs to pay a fee to receive an approved grant increase.

For now, the key date is February 2027. Godongwana has confirmed that the review is underway, but whether pensioners will receive more money will depend on what the government can afford and what Cabinet ultimately approves.

Featured image: Gallo Images/Jeffrey Abrahams

Also see: New biometric testing for SASSA beneficiaries without IDs

The Afrika Mayibuye Movement (AMM), founded by former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) deputy president Floyd Shivambu, has attracted attention following its first appearance in the 2026 local government elections. Also see: Papa Penny joining Afrika Mayibuye Movement draws scepticism The newly formed political movement recorded encouraging results in Limpopo, emerging as the second-largest party in […]

Orlando Pirates will host Sekhukhune United in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, 7 November 2026, as the defending champions look to move one step closer to retaining their title. Also see: Kaizer Chiefs vs TS Galaxy: Carling Knockout Cup clash tonight The match will take place at Orlando Amstel Arena in Soweto, with […]

South African neo-soul singer Lira shared an Instagram post celebrating the 20th anniversary of the album that truly changed it all… Feel Good. Also see: Mi Casa, Lira and more join 19-concert line-up in Kirstenbosch The project has been a beautiful soundtrack to the South African neo-soul era and a staple sound for the average South […]

The Durban High Court has dismissed Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla’s application to have criminal charges linked…

An old video allegedly showing former advocate Malesela Teffo dancing alongside another inmate in…

South African businesswoman and philanthropist Shauwn ‘MamMkhize’ Mkhize recently took to social media after…

Six years after President Cyril Ramaphosa promised to transform Lanseria in Gauteng into a…

In an era where digital storytelling rapidly intersects with technical expertise, popular South African…

One half of one of the most tumultuous relationships on the marriage reality show…

Durban offers a vibrant blend of coastal beauty, rich cultural heritage, and world-class leisure…

South African politician and civil society activist Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi recently admitted that he…

Homba Mazaleni has officially made her debut as a presenter on S3’s popular lifestyle…

Kaizer Chiefs supporters have shared mixed reactions following reports of Jessica Motaung stepping down…