Will South Africans over 60 get double SASSA grants? — here’s what to know

SASSA flags 210,000 grant beneficiaries for review over undisclosed income, urges compliance to avoid suspension
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has cautioned the public against a viral post circulating online, which falsely claims that South Africans over the age of 60 now qualify for two separate social grants.
The misleading message, styled as a “breaking news” alert, alleges that seniors are eligible for “double grants,” in addition to the Old Age Grant.
The post reads:
BREAKING NEWS: Double Grant Approved for Seniors! Over 60? South Africans Seniors Now Qualify for TWO Grants – Here’s How! If you’re over 60 in South Africa, you could be eligible for TWO separate SASSA grants — not just the Old Age Grant. Most seniors are only getting R2,090/mon…
But reacting, SASSA firmly rejected the claim, stressing that it does not originate from the agency.
“Please note that the below information is false and does NOT come from SASSA,” the agency clarified in its response.
[FAKE NEWS ALERT]
Please note that the below information is false and does NOT come from SASSA.#SASSACARES @GCISMedia @GovernmentZA @The_DSD @nda_rsa pic.twitter.com/2UOq9Qeyo6
— SASSA (@OfficialSASSA) August 18, 2025
SASSA reminded beneficiaries and the general public that official updates on grants and eligibility criteria are only communicated through its verified platforms — including its website, official social media accounts, and established media channels.
The agency also warned citizens to be vigilant against misinformation and scams, which often resurface online targeting vulnerable groups, particularly pensioners. “All authentic grant-related announcements are made directly by SASSA. If it’s not on SASSA’s official platforms, it is not genuine,” the agency reiterated.
At present, South Africans over the age of 60 remain entitled to the Old Age Grant, which is subject to qualifying criteria, but there is no provision for a second grant as suggested in the false viral post.