Who Qualifies for SASSA Old Age Grant?

To satisfy the basic requirements of older citizens of South Africa, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) introduced the Old Age Grant. Any older citizen can apply for the SASSA Old Age Grant as long as they meet the eligibility requirements set by SASSA. If the applicant does not satisfy the eligibility criteria, their application will not be considered.

Hence, it is crucial to understand the requirements of the SASSA Old Age Grant to ensure a successful attempt. This guide will walk you through the Old Age Grant requirements established by SASSA that will make you qualify for the grant. Therefore, keep reading to gain insight and learn who qualifies for the SASSA Old Age Grant.

SASSA Old Age Grant Eligibility Requirements

SASSA Old Age Grant has particular requirements that every applicant must satisfy to apply for the grant successfully. They have strict requirements to ensure only those who genuinely need assistance receive it. The following are the criteria that every individual must satisfy before applying:

• You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
• The applicant must reside in South Africa.
• You must be 60 years old or older.
• The applicant must not reside in a state institution (such as a rehabilitation center or state old age home).
• Applicants must not be receiving any other social grant for themselves.
• You and your spouse must meet the means test requirement.
• The applicant must not earn more than R172,560 if you are married or R86,280 if you are single.
• Additionally, you must not possess assets exceeding R2,455,200 if you are married or R2,227,600 if you are single.

SASSA uses a test to confirm your income and asset eligibility for social grants. Therefore, you must determine your income and assess your assets to ensure that they fall below the cap set by SASSA.

What Happens After Qualifying?

After satisfying the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the SASSA Old Age Grant. You can apply by visiting the nearest SASSA office and completing the application form. The applicant must take the following documents with them:

• The applicant’s authentic and official ID documents.
• If you don’t possess an ID, you must:
  • Write an affidavit on a standard SASSA form and have it witnessed by a Commissioner of Oath who is not an SASSA official. A SASSA official will provide you with the necessary documents.
  • Get a signed statement from a respected person like a traditional leader, counselor, social worker, or school principal to confirm your name and age.
  • Undergo fingerprinting by a SASSA official. While SASSA works on your application, you will need to go to the Department of Home Affairs to get an ID. If you don’t get one, your grant may be stopped.
• If applicable, provide proof of your marital status.
• Proof of address.
• You must also give proof of pension.
• Proof of your income, dividends, and assets (including property value).
• Your bank statement for the past three months.
• If you do not have a job, you need an Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) (blue book) or a discharge certificate from your previous employer.
• Moreover, if your spouse passed away within the last five years, you will need a copy of their death certificate, their will, and financial accounts if applicable.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, SASSA offers Old Age Grants to elderly citizens to help them satisfy their basic requirements. You can apply for the grant by visiting the nearest SASSA office and completing the application form. However, before applying, make sure that you satisfy their eligibility requirements.