The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced an important December 2025 pension update which comes as a relief to the elderly population dependent on the Old Age Grant for their daily necessities. The living expenses have been high and therefore the pension disbursements are of utmost importance for the old age pensioners in the country.
Will There Be a Pension Hike in December 2025?
SASSA has made it clear that for December 2025 there would be no new pension increase that would be applied only in December. The grants for the elderly that are going to be paid in December are already comprising the rises enforced before the start of the 2025 financial year. Thus, the beneficiaries will continuously get the updated monthly amounts without any cutbacks or breaks.
Old Age Grant Amounts Currently
The monthly grant of R2,090 is given to the pensioners below 75 years old, meanwhile, the ones aged 75 and over get R2,150. These figures are the resultant of the previous modifications aimed at assisting the pensioners in covering the price hikes of food, electricity, and health care. The grant amounts will be fully disbursed during the month of December.
Officially Stated Date of Payment for December 2025
SASSA has publicly stated that the Old Age Grants will be disbursed at the start of December 2025 in accordance with the regular monthly payment calendar. The granting of older persons’ benefits is the first priority and thus they are disbursed first so as to minimize delays and also to make sure that the elderly beneficiaries can get their money without delay.
How Pensioners Will Receive Their Payments
Pensioners will get payments through the already existing methods that have been registered with SASSA during this month. Among these are personal direct bank deposits, SASSA cards that can be used at certain retail outlets, and Post Office collection places. SASSA strongly supports the option of using bank deposits as they are safer and more convenient, particularly during the bustling festive season.
Eligibility Criteria Still the Same
The Old Age Grant eligibility criteria will remain the same on December 2025. It is necessary for the applicants to be of a certain age, to undergo a means test, and to be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees recognized by the government. Those receiving benefits at the moment will not have to reapply unless SASSA asks them for verification and so forth.
Important Advice for Pensioners
It is the SASSA that recommends elderly people to verify the status of their payment and make sure that their banking and personal information is correct. Moreover, the elderly who receive benefits need to be particularly watchful of scams, as fraud is at its highest in December.
Also Read: Christmas SASSA Grants Confirmed 2025: December Payout Dates And Eligibility Rules