The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially addressed the circulating rumors and confirmed the specific payment schedule for February 2026. For millions of South Africans who depend on these funds to cover basic household needs, clarity on payout dates is essential for effective budgeting. The agency has emphasized a staggered approach to avoid overcrowding at retailers and ATMs, ensuring that the most vulnerable citizens receive their support with minimal delays.
Official Payout Dates for February 2026
The disbursement of social grants follows a specific hierarchy designed to prioritize the elderly and those living with disabilities. According to the official SASSA announcement, the cycle begins in the first week of the month. Older persons and those receiving the War Veterans grant are the first to be serviced, followed immediately by those on disability support. The remaining categories, which include the various child-related grants, are scheduled for the third day of the rollout. This system has proven effective in managing the high volume of beneficiaries who visit physical collection points.
February 2026 Payment Breakdown Table
To help you plan your month, here is a detailed breakdown of the confirmed dates and the current monetary values for each major grant category.
Specific Amounts for Children and Other Support
While the primary dates focus on the initial rollout, it is important to note the specific values attached to other essential social supports. The Child Support grant remains a vital lifeline for many families at R560 per month, with an additional Top-Up of R280 available for orphans. Those receiving the Foster Care grant will see R1,250 in their accounts, while the Care Dependency grant matches the Disability grant at R2,320. These figures represent the current baseline before the anticipated adjustments typically announced in the national budget speech.
Understanding the SRD R370 Payment Window
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, commonly known as the R370 grant, operates on a slightly different timeline than the permanent social grants. For February 2026, SASSA has confirmed that processing and payments will occur between the 20th and the 25th of the month. Unlike the fixed dates for pensioners, SRD beneficiaries are encouraged to check their status on the official portal to see their specific “payday.” Once the status shows “Approved,” the funds may take an additional 2 to 3 days to reflect in a personal bank account.
Battling Misinformation and Fraud
In recent weeks, SASSA has had to “set the record straight” regarding several viral social media posts claiming that certain grants were being cancelled or that foreign nationals were being given new priorities. The agency has categorically denied these claims, urging the public to ignore unofficial graphics shared on WhatsApp and TikTok. Furthermore, beneficiaries are reminded to never share their PIN or CVV numbers with anyone, even those claiming to be SASSA officials. True SASSA representatives will never ask for your private banking security codes to “verify” your account.
Mandatory Biometric and Eligibility Reviews
A significant development in 2026 is the intensification of eligibility reviews. SASSA has sent out thousands of SMS notifications requesting beneficiaries to visit their local offices for biometric verification. This is part of a broader move to eliminate “ghost” beneficiaries and ensure that public funds are reaching those who actually qualify. If you receive such a notice, it is imperative to act within the stipulated timeframe. Failure to undergo a review when requested can lead to the temporary suspension of your payments.
Tips for a Stress-Free Collection
To ensure a smooth experience, SASSA recommends that beneficiaries do not feel pressured to withdraw their entire balance on the very first day of payment. Once the money is deposited into your account or SASSA card, it remains there until you choose to spend it. Waiting a few days after the initial “rush” can save you hours of standing in queues at retailers like Checkers, Shoprite, or Boxer. Additionally, using your SASSA card directly for grocery purchases is often safer and more convenient than carrying large amounts of cash.
FAQs
Q1 What should I do if my payment is late?
First, check your status on the SASSA website or via the USSD string. If the status is “Approved” but no money has arrived after 72 hours, contact the SASSA toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11.
Q2 Can I still change my banking details?
Yes, you can update your payment method through the official portal. However, changes made after the 19th of the month may only take effect in the following payment cycle.
Q3 Is the SRD R370 grant ending soon?
The government has confirmed that the SRD grant has been extended until March 2027. Any structural changes or “redesigns” to the grant will be communicated through official government gazettes.
