SASSA Old Age Grant June 2025 Payment Delayed, New Schedule Here, VAT Cancels Out R130 Boost
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced a delay in the June 2025 Old Age Grant payments, causing concern among many elderly beneficiaries. While the government had earlier announced an increase of R130 to help seniors cope with rising living costs, this increase has been overshadowed by higher VAT and service charges, leaving many recipients frustrated.
If you’re someone who depends on this grant—or know someone who does—it’s important to understand the changes, the new payment dates, and what the real impact will be.
In this article, we’ll break everything down in simple language so you can stay informed and prepared.
Why the Delay in June 2025 Payments?
SASSA confirmed that technical banking issues and administrative rescheduling are the main reasons for the delay in June’s old age grant payments. The payment was initially expected during the first week of June but has now been pushed by several days.
For many elderly citizens, even a short delay can create major challenges, especially for those relying on the grant to buy food, pay rent, or buy medicine.
SASSA has assured the public that payments are not cancelled—just delayed—and all eligible recipients will still receive their funds once the issues are resolved.
VAT Increase and the R130 Grant Boost – What’s the Real Deal?
Earlier in 2025, the government approved a R130 increase in the monthly old age pension to help seniors cope with inflation. However, at almost the same time, a VAT (Value Added Tax) adjustment and rising food prices have affected basic spending.
Many seniors now feel that the R130 boost has been cancelled out by higher costs on essential items like bread, milk, electricity, and transport. Some even say they are worse off than before the increase.
Overview Table: June 2025 SASSA Old Age Grant Updates
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Original Payment Date | 3–5 June 2025 |
| New Payment Date | 10–12 June 2025 (as updated by SASSA) |
| Reason for Delay | Banking system issues and administrative backlog |
| Old Grant Amount | R2,090 (for recipients under 75) |
| New Grant Amount | R2,220 after R130 increase |
| Effect of VAT & Prices | Higher food and services costs reduce real benefit |
| Who Is Affected? | All old age grant recipients (including over 75s) |
| How To Check Payment Status | Via SASSA website or Post Office branch |
| What Should You Do? | Wait for new schedule and avoid panic withdrawals |
How the VAT Increase Impacts Seniors
The VAT increase, which was implemented just weeks before the grant hike, is especially hard on older people who spend most of their income on essential items. Even though the R130 increase was welcomed, it’s now clear that it hasn’t improved purchasing power as much as expected.
For example:
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A loaf of bread now costs R3–R5 more than a few months ago.
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Transport costs have gone up due to fuel price hikes.
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Electricity bills are rising due to municipal tariffs.
For seniors on a fixed income, this means the R130 barely covers the difference, and in some cases, their monthly budget feels even tighter.
How to Prepare for the New Payment Dates
If you rely on the SASSA old age grant, here’s what you can do while waiting for the delayed June payment:
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Double-Check the New Dates
Confirm your payment date via SASSA’s official channels, local Post Office, or call centers. -
Avoid Panic Withdrawals
Some people rush to ATMs or branches out of fear. It’s best to wait for confirmation to avoid standing in long queues unnecessarily. -
Budget Carefully
Stretch what you have for a few more days. Make small purchases and avoid non-essential spending. -
Seek Temporary Help
If you’re struggling, talk to local community organizations or churches that may offer emergency food packs. -
Keep Receipts and Stay Updated
Track your spending and follow SASSA updates so you know when the grant is credited.
What to Expect Going Forward
SASSA has said the June 2025 delay is temporary and not a permanent change. However, this situation highlights the need for better planning and communication when changes happen.
The government may need to revisit the impact of VAT increases on low-income groups, especially pensioners. Many advocacy groups are now asking for a VAT exemption on essential goods or an additional grant boost to balance rising costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When will the June 2025 SASSA old age grant be paid?
A: The new payment window is expected between 10–12 June 2025, depending on your payment method and bank processing.
Q2: Why was the payment delayed this month?
A: The delay was caused by banking system technical issues and SASSA administrative scheduling problems.
Q3: Is the R130 increase still included despite the delay?
A: Yes, the R130 increase is still being added to the grant. However, higher VAT and living costs may reduce its real value.
Q4: What should I do if I haven’t received my grant by the new date?
A: Contact SASSA via their toll-free number or visit a local SASSA office with your ID and SASSA card to check your status.
Q5: Can I still collect my grant at the Post Office?
A: Yes, Post Office payments are continuing. Just make sure to visit after your payment date has been confirmed.
Final Thoughts
The delay in the SASSA Old Age Grant for June 2025 is causing confusion and concern, but the good news is that payments will still be made—just a little later than expected. While the R130 grant boost offered hope, the impact of VAT increases and inflation has sadly taken away much of that gain.
Going forward, better planning and consideration for seniors’ financial realities are needed to ensure these support systems truly work. For now, the best approach is to stay informed, manage resources wisely, and reach out for help if needed.
Keep checking your payment status and avoid unnecessary panic. The help is on the way—it’s just taking a bit longer than usual.