The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed the grant payment dates for October 2025, giving millions of South Africans who depend on this vital support system the certainty they need to plan their month. The agency has also continued to stress the importance of the new biometric verification process, which was rolled out in September, to strengthen the system and protect beneficiaries from fraud.
For October, SASSA has scheduled the Older Persons Grant to be paid on Thursday, 2 October 2025. The Disability Grant will follow a day later, on Friday, 3 October 2025. All other grants, which include the Child Support, Care Dependency, Foster Child, and War Veterans’ grants, will be available from Monday, 6 October 2025. Beneficiaries are reminded that there is no need to rush to collect money on the first day, as payments will remain safely in their bank accounts until withdrawn. This is particularly important for those who may face long queues at retail outlets or payment points, as there is no risk of their grant money disappearing if not collected immediately.
The most notable development this month is the continued implementation of biometric verification. Since 1 September 2025, new applicants have been required to provide either a fingerprint or facial scan during their application. This step is part of SASSA’s plan to eliminate fraudulent claims and ensure that grants are only paid to the rightful recipients. The agency has confirmed that this new system will not affect existing beneficiaries unless specifically instructed to update their details. For those applying afresh, however, it is now mandatory.
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Biometric verification has been introduced to address long-standing issues of fraud and duplicate applications that have strained the grant system over the years. With this update, SASSA believes it can safeguard beneficiaries’ income while also improving efficiency in handling new applications and appeals. At present, social grants reach close to 19 million people across the country, which means any loopholes can create widespread challenges. By tightening the system with technology, the agency hopes to both protect beneficiaries and ensure sustainability in the long run.
For existing recipients, the process of accessing their grants remains unchanged. Beneficiaries are encouraged to keep their contact and banking details accurate with SASSA to avoid delays or declined payments. The agency has also advised beneficiaries to stay alert to official announcements and avoid relying on unverified information circulating on social media.
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October is set to be another busy payment cycle for SASSA, but with the confirmed dates and the additional security measures in place, the agency reassures the public that the process is designed to be as smooth as possible. Older persons can expect their payments on 2 October, those receiving disability grants on 3 October, and all other qualifying beneficiaries from 6 October. These grants continue to provide a lifeline for millions of households, covering essential needs such as food, housing, transport, and school-related expenses for children.
The new biometric checks may feel like an adjustment for some, but SASSA maintains that this change is about protecting beneficiaries. Fraudulent deductions, ghost beneficiaries, and system abuse have been persistent issues in the past, and this new process is expected to close those gaps. At the same time, it reinforces trust in the grant system by ensuring fairness and proper distribution to those who truly need the support.
As the October payments approach, beneficiaries are reminded that their money is secure, and there is no requirement to withdraw it on the first day. The focus this month remains on timely disbursement, reducing queues, and enhancing security through technology, all while continuing to provide the essential financial relief that millions of South Africans depend on every month.
