Will The SASSA Grant Increase In November 2026?

Will The SASSA Grant Increase In November 2026?

Will the Government Raise SASSA Grants Again in November 2026?:

As South Africans continue grappling with the high cost of living, the burning question on many minds is: Will the SASSA grant increase in November 2026? Historically, grant adjustments occur annually around April, following the National Budget Speech. The most recent increase, effective April 1, 2025, saw major boosts: Old Age, Disability, and Care Dependency Grants rose by R130 (about 6%), while the Child Support Grant increased by R30. However, the SRD (R370/month) remained unchanged, slated for extension only until March 2026

Unlike usual grant adjustments, which align with South Africa’s fiscal calendar (April–March), speculations around a November increase stem from evolving economic pressures and policy reforms. With inflation steadily climbing and the government exploring active-labour market interventions linked to the SRD grant extension, there is renewed public interest in whether beneficiaries will see an off-cycle mid-year adjustment late in 2026.

Moreover, projections from the National Treasury indicate a continued rise in grant recipients, from 19.3 million in 2028 to an increased budget envelope (R259 billion by 2026/27). These figures suggest that the state is under pressure to provide meaningful increases that keep pace with living costs. As government policies expand beyond the April cycle, examining job-linked allowances and structured reforms, the possibility of a November 2026 boost, while not guaranteed, becomes increasingly plausible.

Read Also: Sassa Increase 2025 Dates

Will The SASSA Grant Increase In November 2026?

According to the National Treasury’s 2025 Budget Overview released on Wednesday, all permanent SASSA social grants will receive increases in the 2025/26 financial year, except the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, which will not be affected by the re-tabled budget.

The number of grant recipients, excluding SRD beneficiaries, is projected to grow to 19.3 million people by March 2028.

Below are the approved grant increases:

Old Age Grant: R2,185 → R2,315
War Veterans Grant: R2,205 → R2,335
Disability Grant: R2,185 → R2,315
Foster Care Grant: R1,180 → R1,250
Care Dependency Grant: R2,185 → R2,315
Child Support Grant: R530 → R560
Grant-in-Aid: R530 → R560

The Treasury confirmed a R1.6 billion increase in the total social grants budget for 2025/26.

Meanwhile, the R370 SRD grant will be extended until 31 March 2026, with a total allocation of R35.2 billion, including administration costs.
In his Budget Speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana said the government is looking into ways to better link the SRD grant to job creation.
He stated, “We are considering a job-seeker allowance and other employment-related measures under our review of Active Labour Market Programmes. The aim is to offer both short-term relief and long-term solutions by helping people transition into employment and improve their livelihoods.”

Why People Expect an Increase in November 2026

Various factors contribute to the expectation of a November 2026 increase:

Inflation: South Africa continues to face rising inflation, which reduces the real value of grant payments.
General Elections & Policy Shifts: The 2026 political climate may influence decisions on grant increases.
Employment Initiatives: The Government is actively exploring options to link the SRD grant with employment, such as a potential job-seeker allowance.

If economic conditions worsen, the state may be forced to provide additional relief through a special increase, even outside of the usual budget cycle.

What the Treasury and SASSA Have Said For 2025/2026

As of now, there is no official confirmation that SASSA grants will increase in November 2026. The National Treasury has not announced any mid-year adjustment, and traditionally, grant increases are only implemented in April following the budget presentation.

However, during his 2025 speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana hinted at future reforms to the social grant system, especially around employment-linked assistance. While this does not guarantee an increase, it shows that the government is considering long-term changes that could impact how and when grants are adjusted.

Could the Sassa SRD Grant Be Increased In 2026

The SRD R370 grant is one of the most talked-about issues. Beneficiaries have long called for an increase to R500 or more. Although the SRD has been extended to March 2026, no raise has been announced.
If the government finds additional funding or makes policy changes, a November 2026 SRD increase could be possible, but for now, it remains speculation.

SASSA Contact Details

For any further queries, please contact SASSA directly:
Contact the SASSA Toll-Free Call centre on 0800 60 10 11
Contact the SASSA Head Office on 012 400 2322
Email SASSA Head Office at: Grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za

Monitoring official announcements from SASSA or the government is crucial to stay updated on any changes in grant amounts. By staying informed, you can plan your finances effectively and understand the level of support available to you through SASSA grants. For more information, please visit SASSA Grant’s official website.

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