The late payment for the month of May 2025 has come as a shock to many terrified elderly South Africans who rely on the SASSA Old Age Grant. The South African Social Security Agency has officially confirmed the postponement and issued new dates to calm the fears of grant beneficiaries.
Reason Behind the Delay
Considering the national financial reconciliation calendar, simultaneous upgrades of the system and processing backlogs are the cause behind the delay. Correction to the earlier financial reconciliations would have taken some time for verification and disbursement of funds from the provincial departments, an exception to be able to do that in their first week of May, as per SASSA payment release schedules. The agency insisted that it is just a one-time glitch and is not expected to impact further months.
New Payment Date Announced
New date for the Old Age Grant payments was announced by the SASSA from 9 May 2025. Direct bank deposit pensioners will account for payments from the stated date onward. Grants that are collected by beneficiaries, through pay points or retail partners, may only be accessible by May 10th, or onset orders on a regional basis, depending on the manner of collection.
What Beneficiaries Should Do
Pensioners could use the SASSA online portal to verify their payment status or contact the nearest SASSA office to inquire about the update. There’s no need for them to reapply or submit extra documentation. The agency reassured that payment for all eligible grant recipients is secured and would be paid in full.
Government Intervention and Prevention to Follow
The Department of Social Development acknowledges the inconveniencing of the elderly due to these delays and is working with SASSA in ensuring their non-occurrence in the future. Steps are being taken to fast-track payments and enhance communication with recipients. A special task team has also been instituted to address and monitor technical disruptions of this pattern.
Final Word
Although the delay of the May 2025 Old Age Grant has caused concern from so many recipients, SASSA has thus far acted promptly in releasing clear payment dates and restoring trust. Beneficiaries should stay patient, as the funds will be forthcoming within days.
