Every January, the same question comes up. “Is the SASSA pension going up again?” If you’re an older person or you help one manage household finances, this matters a lot. Even a small change can affect groceries, electricity, or medication for the month.
So let’s get straight to the point. The SASSA Pension Increase January 2026 does not bring a new hike. But that doesn’t mean nothing has changed recently, or that the grant has stalled.
Current SASSA Pension Amounts in January 2026
The pension amounts paid in January 2026 are the same ones introduced during the October 2025 adjustment. These figures continue into the new year without reduction.
Older Persons Grant Amounts
- Ages 60 to 74: R2,320 per month
- Ages 75 and older: R2,340 per month
That small extra amount for seniors over 75 is intentional. As people age, medical and daily care costs usually rise. This structure tries, even in a modest way, to reflect that reality.
If you’re seeing the phrase “SASSA Pension Increase January 2026” online, it’s mostly referring to the continuation of these updated amounts, not a brand-new increase.
Why There’s No New Increase in January
Here’s the thing many people don’t realize. SASSA grants don’t increase randomly throughout the year.
Most pension adjustments happen during:
- April, after the national budget
- October, as a mid-year review
The last increase was a R10 adjustment in October 2025. January 2026 simply carries those amounts forward. It’s normal, and it doesn’t mean future increases are off the table. Any new changes will depend on upcoming budget decisions and inflation pressures.
January 2026 Pension Payment Date
Payment timing matters, especially after December expenses.
For January 2026:
- Older Persons Grant payment date: Tuesday, 6 January 2026
Older persons are paid first to reduce congestion and make collection easier. And remember, you don’t lose your money if you can’t collect it on the day. The funds remain available in your account.
You can access your grant through:
- Bank deposits
- ATMs
- Selected retail stores
- Approved pay points
Eligibility Reminder for Seniors
To receive the Older Persons Grant, you must:
- Be 60 years or older
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Live in South Africa
- Pass the means test (income and asset limits apply)
- Not live in a state-funded institution
- Not receive another grant for yourself
If your income, address, or banking details change, updating SASSA early helps prevent payment issues later.
Practical Tips for a Smooth January
From experience, most problems are avoidable:
- Check your bank details before January payments
- Respond quickly if SASSA requests biometric verification
- Ignore calls or messages asking for payment fees
- Only trust information from official SASSA platforms
Stability matters. Even without a January increase, the pension remains a crucial lifeline for millions of older South Africans trying to manage rising costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a SASSA pension increase in January 2026?
No. There is no new increase in January 2026. Pensioners continue receiving the amounts adjusted in October 2025. Any future increases will likely be announced during the April or October budget reviews.
How much will pensioners receive in January 2026?
Seniors aged 60–74 receive R2,320 per month, while those aged 75 and older receive R2,340. These amounts apply throughout January 2026 unless officially changed by SASSA.
Can the pension amount change later in 2026?
Yes. SASSA pension amounts are reviewed during the year, usually in April or October. Any increase depends on government budget decisions and economic conditions.