SASSA Payment Dates for February 2026 bring timely relief to millions of South Africans relying on social grants. These payments follow a well-established staggered schedule to ease congestion at banking points and post offices.​
Official Payment Timeline
The South African Social Security Agency starts disbursing grants early in the month. Older Persons Grants hit accounts on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, allowing seniors to plan their essentials without delay. Disability Grants follow on Wednesday, February 4, ensuring those with special needs access funds promptly.
Children’s Grants and all remaining categories wrap up the schedule on Thursday, February 5. This three-day rollout has proven effective over years, minimizing long queues and technical glitches at ATMs. Beneficiaries often share stories of smoother collections compared to single-day payouts in the past.​
Grant Amounts Overview
Current rates reflect adjustments for living costs, though no major hikes were announced for this cycle. Here’s a clear breakdown of key grants:
| Grant Type | Amount (ZAR) | Payment Date |
|---|---|---|
| Older Persons (under 75) | R2,320 | February 3 |
| Older Persons (75+) | R2,340 | February 3 |
| Disability Grant | R2,320 | February 4 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,340 | February 3 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,320 | February 5 |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,250 | February 5 |
| Child Support Grant | R560 | February 5 |
| Child Support Top-Up | R280 | February 5 |
| Social Relief of Distress | R370 | February 5 |
These figures help families budget for groceries, school fees, and medications amid rising prices. SASSA urges everyone to double-check eligibility via their app or local offices.​
Why the Staggered System Works
Spreading payments over three days cuts down on chaos that once plagued grant days. Banks and retailers handle smaller crowds, reducing fraud risks and wait times. In past months, this approach saved hours for rural beneficiaries traveling long distances.​
SASSA’s communication via social media and SMS keeps people informed, avoiding misinformation from unofficial sources. Officials remind grantees that funds stay in accounts even if not withdrawn immediately—no need to rush on day one.​
Banking Details and Updates
Many now receive grants directly into personal bank accounts, a shift from cash at pay points. To change details, visit a SASSA office with ID and proof of residence—no online swaps for now. Delays happen if details mismatch, so verify early via the Moya app or helpline.​
Post offices remain an option for those without banks, though card-only withdrawals speed things up. Scammers target grant days with fake SMS links, so stick to official channels.​
Preparing for Smooth Access
Mark your calendar and test your bank card beforehand. Rural folks should plan transport, as weather in February can turn roads tricky. Community groups often organize rideshares to share costs.​
SASSA offices buzz with activity pre-payout, offering free verification services. Keep your phone charged for balance checks via USSD codes like 1347737#. Families with multiple grantees coordinate to avoid overlapping trips.​
Recent Updates and Challenges
No payment shifts reported as of late January 2026, but watch for inflation-linked adjustments later this year. Backlogs from verification drives cleared up, boosting approvals. Still, urban fraud cases rose slightly, prompting extra security at hotspots.​
Beneficiaries report fewer declines thanks to biometric upgrades. SASSA plans more digital tools by mid-2026, like app-based status tracking. These steps build trust in a system serving over 28 million people monthly.​
FAQs
When do February 2026 grants start?
Payments begin February 3 for older persons, spanning three days.​
What if I miss my grant date?
Funds remain in your account indefinitely—wait and withdraw anytime.​
How to update bank details?
Visit a SASSA office with ID; no home changes allowed yet.​
