SASSA War Veterans Grant 2026 - Amount, Eligibility & How to Apply

The SASSA War Veterans Grant supports older South Africans who fought in the Second World War or the Korean War and can no longer support themselves. This guide covers the amount, who qualifies, the documents you need, the payment dates, and how to apply.

War Veterans Grant Amount (2026)

The War Veterans Grant pays a maximum of R2,420 per month, confirmed in the SASSA media statement of 23 March 2026 (the April 2026 increase added R80). It is the highest standard SASSA grant.

Who Qualifies (Eligibility)

• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident living in South Africa
• Be 60 years of age or older, or be disabled
• Have fought in the Second World War (1939-1945) or the Korean War (1950-1953)
• Not be receiving another social grant for yourself
• Not be cared for in a state institution
• Pass the means test - if single, earn no more than R86 280 a year; if married, no more than R172 560 a year
• Not own assets worth more than R1 227 600 (single) or R2 455 200 (married)

Required Documents

• Your 13-digit barcoded South African ID
• Proof and a certificate of your war service
• A medical report confirming you cannot work (if applying on disability grounds)
• Proof of marital status (marriage certificate, divorce order, or spouse's death certificate as applicable)
• Payslips if you or your spouse are employed, or UIF documents if unemployed
• A discharge certificate from your last employer
• Bank statements for the last three months and proof of any other income or assets

No ID yet? Complete an affidavit in front of a commissioner of oaths, bring a sworn statement from a trusted person confirming your name and age, and proof that you have applied for an ID at Home Affairs (a temporary ID is also accepted).

War Veterans Grant Payment Dates (2026/2027)

The War Veterans Grant is paid on the 2nd in most months, together with the Older Persons Grant. If the date falls on a weekend or public holiday, payment moves to the next working day.

Official source: SASSA media statement, 23 March 2026 - verify on SASSA News (Facebook).

How to Apply (Application Process)

1. Visit your nearest SASSA office and bring the documents above, including proof of war service.
2. Complete the application form in front of a SASSA officer (only you or the officer may fill it in).
3. Keep the receipt SASSA gives you as proof of your application.

Can't get to the office? If you are sick or too old to travel, a family member or friend can apply on your behalf with a letter from you and a doctor's note.

When the Grant Is Suspended or Stops

The grant may be suspended if your situation changes, you do not cooperate with a review, you give false information, or there was a mistake when it was approved. It lapses if you pass away, are admitted to a state institution, do not collect it for three consecutive months, or leave the country. If your application is not approved, you can appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days.

Good to know: applying is completely free. Never pay anyone to "help" you apply.