Navigating the social security landscape in South Africa requires staying up to date with the latest schedules and policy shifts. As we move through February 2026, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) continues to provide a vital lifeline to millions of households. Understanding exactly when your funds will be available and what administrative changes are taking place is essential for effective financial planning. This month, SASSA has maintained its staggered payment approach to ensure that high-traffic collection points remain manageable and that every beneficiary can access their funds safely and efficiently.
February 2026 Payment Schedule
The disbursement of social grants follows a specific order each month to prioritize the most vulnerable groups. For February 2026, the payment cycle began in the first week of the month. Older Persons grants were the first to be processed, followed closely by Disability grants. Finally, the remaining categories, including Child Support and Foster Care grants, were released. This system is designed to prevent overcrowding at banks and retail outlets like Pick n Pay, Boxer, and Shoprite, which often serve as primary withdrawal points for many South Africans.
Official Grant Amounts for early 2026
While the National Treasury recently announced upcoming increases in the 2026 Budget Speech, the amounts for February remain at the established levels. These funds are calculated to assist with basic cost-of-living expenses, though inflation continues to put pressure on the purchasing power of these stipends. It is important to note that the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 grant follows a different processing window, typically occurring toward the end of the month after various verification checks are completed against government databases.
| Grant Type | February 2026 Amount | Payment Date |
| Older Persons Grant | R2,320 (R2,340 for 75+) | Tuesday, 3 February |
| Disability Grant | R2,320 | Wednesday, 4 February |
| Children’s Grants | R560 (Child Support) | Thursday, 5 February |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,250 | Thursday, 5 February |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,340 | Tuesday, 3 February |
| Care Dependency | R2,320 | Thursday, 5 February |
| SRD R370 Grant | R370 | 20 – 25 February |
The Push for Biometric Verification
A significant trend in 2026 is the intensification of security measures. SASSA has rolled out mandatory biometric verification for many beneficiaries to combat identity theft and fraud. This process involves linking a beneficiary’s unique biological traits—such as facial recognition or fingerprints—to their ID records at the Department of Home Affairs. If you receive a notification requesting a biometric check, it is crucial to follow the instructions promptly. Failing to complete this verification can lead to a temporary suspension of payments as the agency moves to save billions of Rands by eliminating “ghost” beneficiaries from the system.
Managing Your SASSA Status
Keeping track of your application or payment status has become significantly easier thanks to digital platforms. Beneficiaries are encouraged to use the official SASSA SRD portal or the WhatsApp channel to check for “Approved” or “Pending” statuses. If your status shows as “Declined,” you have the right to lodge an appeal through the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals. It is also a good time to ensure your banking details are correct; SASSA recommends using a personal bank account over the SASSA gold card for faster access to funds and lower transaction fees.
Upcoming Increases in April 2026
Looking ahead, the Minister of Finance has confirmed that beneficiaries can expect a boost in their monthly payments starting April 1, 2026. Most major grants, including the Old Age and Disability grants, are set to increase to approximately R2,400. The Child Support grant will also see a modest rise to R580. While these increases are relatively small, they are aimed at keeping pace with the current inflation rate, providing a bit more breathing room for families struggling with rising food and electricity costs.
Avoiding Scams and Misinformation
With the digital nature of grant management comes an increase in fraudulent activity. SASSA frequently warns the public about “fake news” circulating on social media regarding bonus payments or changes in eligibility for foreign nationals. Always verify information through official government websites or verified news outlets. Remember that SASSA officials will never ask for your PIN or CVV number over the phone or through text messages. Protecting your personal information is just as important as securing the grant itself.
Summary of Important Details
As February closes, ensure that you have checked your account and that all personal details are updated. If you missed your payment date, don’t panic; the funds stay in your account and do not “expire” at the end of the month. Staying informed about these dates and the ongoing biometric crackdown ensures that you remain compliant and that your household support continues without interruption.
FAQs
Q1 What should I do if my grant was not paid this month?
First, check your status online or via the SASSA toll-free line (0800 60 10 11). If your status is “Suspended,” you may need to visit a local office to update your information or complete a biometric verification.
Q2 Can I still apply for the SRD R370 grant?
Yes, applications for the SRD grant remain open online. You must be between 18 and 60 years old, unemployed, and not receiving any other government assistance or UIF benefits to qualify.
Q3 Do I have to withdraw all my money on the payment date?
No, you are not required to withdraw the full amount immediately. The money is safe in your account and can be accessed at any time once it has been deposited.
