The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has made the January 2026 social grant payment schedule public, stating the beginning of the grant payments as 20 January 2026. This announcement is surely a major direction for the millions of people who depend on these monthly social grants in order to cover their basic living expenses. The timetable is applicable to primary grant categories and it aims to make sure that the payment process goes smoothly and orderly throughout the country.
Which Grants Will Be Paid From 20 January
SASSA will commence the payment of the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, Child Support Grant, Foster Care Grant, Care Dependency Grant, and Grant-in-Aid starting from 20 January. Payment will be made in phases rather than all at once to mitigate the problem of congestion at the pay points and ATMs. Beneficiaries are advised not to hurry on the first day because the money is still there after it has been deposited.
Updated Grant Amounts For January 2026
SASSA has also disclosed the grant amounts that will be in effect from January 2026. The monthly pension for the elderly and disabled is fixed at R2,315, while the amount for a child support grant is R560. The foster care grant remains the same at R1,250, and the grant-in-aid is still R560. The adjustments are made in order to give better financial support in the face of increasing living costs.
How Beneficiaries Will Receive Their Payments
Beneficiaries have access to their grants through various secure payment methods. Most of the recipients get the money through bank deposits that are made directly to their accounts, which are credited automatically on the date of the payment. Some others use the SASSA card to withdraw money at ATMs or retail outlets that are part of the program. In a few areas, there are still cash pay points that have been approved, but SASSA promotes using electronic payments wherever possible for safety and the convenience when it comes to receiving draws.
Significant Recommendations To Prevent Payment Delays
Beneficiaries need to make sure that their banking details and contact information are correct and current, so that no disruptions occur. Payments could be delayed or even suspended for a short period due to wrong or old details. In addition, SASSA performs routine verification of beneficiaries, and it is recommended that they answer quickly to any requests for more information.
Next Steps For Beneficiaries
Grant holders should not only keep themselves informed by SASSA’s communications but also check their payment status often. Beneficiaries who will get paid in January will have a better chance of managing their start-of-year expenses if they plan and know the payment schedule for 2026.
Also Read: SASSA Pension Increase 2026 Confirmed: What Beneficiaries Should Know…