The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has released the February 2026 social grant payment schedule. The agency announced that grant payments will begin on 20 February 2026. This information matters greatly to millions of people who rely on these monthly social grants to pay for their basic living costs. The schedule covers the main grant categories and ensures that payments happen smoothly and in an organized way across the country.

Which Grants Will Be Paid From 20 February
SASSA will start paying the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, Child Support Grant Foster Care Grant, Care Dependency Grant and Grant-in-Aid from 20 February. The payments will happen in stages instead of all together to reduce crowding at payment locations and ATMs. Recipients should not rush on the first day because the money remains available after it has been deposited.

Updated Grant Amounts For February 2026
SASSA has announced the grant amounts that will take effect from February 2026. The monthly pension for elderly and disabled recipients will be set at R2315. The child support grant will provide R560 per month. Foster care grants will remain at R1,250 & the grant-in-aid will stay at R560. These adjustments aim to provide improved financial assistance as living costs continue to rise.
How Beneficiaries Will Receive Their Payments
Beneficiaries receive their grants through several secure payment options. Most recipients get their money via direct bank deposits that automatically credit their accounts on payment day. Others use the SASSA card to withdraw cash at ATMs or participating retail stores. A small number of areas still have approved cash payment locations but SASSA encourages electronic payments whenever possible because they are safer & more convenient for receiving funds.
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Significant Recommendations To Prevent Payment Delays
Beneficiaries should check that their banking details and contact information are accurate & up to date to prevent any problems with their payments. If the details are incorrect or outdated then payments might be delayed or temporarily stopped. SASSA also carries out regular checks on beneficiaries so it is important to respond promptly when they ask for additional information.

Next Steps For Beneficiaries
Grant recipients need to stay updated through SASSA communications and regularly verify their payment status. Those receiving payments in February can better handle their early year costs by planning ahead and understanding the 2026 payment schedule.
