The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) announced that Old-Age Grant payments for March 2026 will be distributed to beneficiaries on Tuesday, 3 March 2026. The upcoming payment will follow the established four-week cycle of granting payments and serve as the final distribution before new grant amounts begin on April 2026.
Current Old-Age Grant Amounts
The Old-Age Grant amounts for March 2026 will maintain their current values. Beneficiaries who belong to the 60 to 74 age group will receive R2,320 each month while beneficiaries who belong to the 75 and older age group will receive R2,340 which represents the highest monthly social grant amount in South Africa.
Possible Grant Increases After March 2026
South Africa announces its annual social grant increases during the Budget Speech which takes place in April each year. Grant increases in 2026 will probably exceed inflation rates according to current predictions but final numbers will remain unconfirmed until the government completes its budget allocation process.
If the Old-Age Grant rises by around 5%, recipients aged 60 to 74 will see their monthly payments increase to about R2,430. The government will determine final figures through its budget decisions and inflation assessment.
Inflation and Economic Outlook
The South African inflation rate dropped to 3.5% in 2025 after the country experienced its largest inflation decline. Lower inflation brings economic benefits, but it will result in smaller grant increases than what occurred during previous years. Beneficiaries want grants to increase above inflation rates because they need assistance with their growing living expenses which include food and electricity and transport.
Smooth Start 2026 Grant Payments
The payment cycle for 2026 started effectively according to SASSA which faced only minor delays during the month of January. The agency has since returned to the regular four-week payment schedule which provides stability and predictability for pensioners who depend on their monthly grants.
What Beneficiaries Should Expect
Old-age pensioners should expect no changes to their March 2026 payment amounts but they should closely follow announcements regarding the April 2026 grant increases. Beneficiaries should use official SASSA channels to get information because this helps them avoid misinformation and receive their payments on time.
Also Read:SASSA Grant-In-Aid March 2026: When Will Payments Be Made?