SASSA has introduced new income rules that officially take effect on 1 December 2025, and these changes will directly impact who can keep receiving social grants. Under the updated means test, anyone earning more than R8,070 per month as a single applicant may now lose their eligibility for certain grants. This adjustment applies to both new applicants and existing beneficiaries, making it essential for households to review their income carefully.
Who Is Affected by the New Rules?
The updated income threshold affects a wide range of beneficiaries, including:
- Older Persons Grant recipients
- Disability Grant recipients
- Applicants for Child Support, Foster Care and Care Dependency Grants
- Anyone undergoing SASSA’s means test for adult grants
If your income rises above the threshold, your grant may be suspended or cancelled, even if you have been receiving it for years.
How the Updated Means Test Works
SASSA evaluates both income and assets when determining grant eligibility. This means:
- Monthly salary, part-time earnings, contract work income and private pensions are counted
- Rental income, business income and recurring financial support also count
- Savings, investments and property ownership may influence the assessment
Under the new rule, single applicants earning over R8,070/month will no longer qualify. Married couples are assessed based on total combined household income.
What This Means for Current Beneficiaries
The stricter income rule may lead to:
- Grant suspension for those earning above the threshold
- Reduced likelihood of approval for new applicants with moderate income
- Increased monitoring of informal income (such as freelance work or small business earnings)
- Requests for supporting documents such as bank statements or income proof
Beneficiaries are urged to declare all sources of income honestly to avoid penalties, repayment demands or grant cancellation.
Why SASSA Updated the Income Rule
The new policy is designed to ensure that social grants reach those who need them most. With rising economic pressures and limited budget capacity, SASSA aims to tighten eligibility so that support is directed toward the most vulnerable households.
What You Should Do Now
If you currently receive a grant or plan to apply soon, here’s what you should do:
- Review your income, including informal earnings
- Ensure all personal and financial details are up to date with SASSA
- Prepare supporting documents in case verification is required
- Check whether your household income still meets the updated threshold
Staying prepared will help you avoid interruptions to your grant payments.
Conclusion
SASSA’s new income rules effective from 1 December 2025 mark a significant shift in how grant eligibility is assessed. With the new threshold set at R8,070 per month, many South Africans may find themselves at risk of losing their grant if their income rises above this level. Understanding the updated means test and keeping your information accurate is now more important than ever.