SASSA grants and cost of living challenges in South Africa

Beneficiaries of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) face challenges regarding lapsed social grants and the rising cost of living. A grant may lapse if a recipient no longer meets eligibility requirements, such as changes in financial status, reaching age limits, or death. While a lapsed grant does not automatically imply fraud, recipients may need to submit new applications or request reconsiderations depending on the cause of the lapse.

As the cost of living increases due to hikes in electricity, municipal rates, and fuel prices, many pensioners find that SASSA grants—currently around R2,400 to R2,420 per month—are insufficient. To supplement this income, many South Africans rely on stokvels, which are community-based savings clubs. There are an estimated 800,000 stokvel groups with 11.5 million members, collectively saving approximately R50 billion annually through burial, grocery, and savings models. Additionally, some pensioners may qualify for municipal rebates to help manage expenses.