SASSA beneficiaries are being urged to get ready for their October grant payments, with the agency sharing provisional payout dates for the month. While official confirmation is expected closer to the time, the phased schedule is aimed at easing congestion at collection points.

October 2025 Provisional Payout Dates

• Old Age Grant: Thursday, 2 October
• Disability Grant: Friday, 3 October
• All Other Grants (including Child Grants): Monday, 6 October

Beneficiaries are reminded not to rush to collection points on the first day, as funds will remain available in their accounts until withdrawn. For assistance or queries, the SASSA toll-free line (0800 60 10 11) and local offices remain open.

Biometrics Set to Transform Grant Applications in 2025

Looking beyond October, SASSA has announced a sweeping change to how new grants will be processed. From 1 September 2025, all new applications will require biometric enrolment, including fingerprint and facial recognition scans.

The agency says the move is designed to:

• Tackle fraud and reduce duplicate payments
• Make the grant system more reliable
• Improve security, transparency, and trust

CEO Themba Matlou emphasised that the biometric system will:

• Significantly cut fraudulent applications and duplicates
• Provide reliable proof of identity and life for beneficiaries
• Reduce administrative errors and streamline paperwork
• Strengthen audits and record integrity
• Boost public confidence in South Africa’s social grants

This new approach is seen as a decisive step in protecting one of the country’s most vital social support systems from abuse and manipulation.