The South African Social Security Agency has confirmed the official payment dates for social grants for January 2026, offering early clarity to beneficiaries as the new year begins. The announcement is aimed at helping grant recipients plan, reduce pressure on payment points, and access their funds in a safe and orderly manner.
SASSA stated that the January payment schedule reflects its ongoing commitment to reliable service delivery and enhanced grant administration. The agency noted that timely communication of payment dates is essential to ensure that beneficiaries, particularly older persons, people living with disabilities, and caregivers of children, are not subjected to unnecessary stress or confusion.
According to the agency, payments for Older Persons’ Grants will begin on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Disability Grant payments will follow on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, while Children’s Grants are scheduled to commence on Thursday, January 8, 2026. These dates apply nationwide and cover all approved payment channels.
SASSA has once again appealed to beneficiaries not to rush to withdraw their grants on the first day of payment. The agency emphasised that once funds are deposited, they remain available in beneficiaries’ accounts and can be accessed at any time thereafter. This approach, SASSA said, helps reduce long queues at ATMs, pay points, and retail outlets, while also lowering security risks for vulnerable recipients.
The agency also reiterated the importance of beneficiary biometric verification as part of efforts to safeguard the social grant system. Biometric verification uses unique physical identifiers, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to confirm the identity of grant recipients. These details are cross-checked with records from the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring that grants are paid only to eligible individuals and reducing the risk of fraud or identity misuse.
SASSA explained that biometric verification is not meant to inconvenience beneficiaries but to protect the integrity of the system and ensure fairness. By strengthening identity checks, the agency aims to prevent fraudulent claims, ghost beneficiaries, and unauthorised access to grant funds, while preserving resources for those who genuinely depend on social assistance.
Beneficiaries are also encouraged to make use of formal banking channels, ATMs, and approved merchants when accessing their grants. These options are considered safer and more convenient, especially for beneficiaries who may face mobility challenges or health concerns. SASSA noted that spreading withdrawals over several days helps improve service efficiency and reduces congestion at payment facilities.
For beneficiaries who have questions about payment dates, verification requirements, or access challenges, SASSA has advised contacting the agency through its official support channels. The agency warned against relying on unverified social media messages or third-party sources, noting that misinformation can cause unnecessary panic or confusion.
As South Africa continues to strengthen its social protection framework, SASSA said it remains focused on improving transparency, security, and dignity in grant payments. The agency encouraged beneficiaries to stay informed through official communication platforms and assured the public that it will continue to provide timely updates on grant-related matters throughout 2026.
