SASSA Payments Could Be Late in May 2025: If you depend on SASSA payments to manage groceries, rent, or daily expenses, this May may not go as smoothly as usual. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially warned that grant payments may be delayed in May 2025 for certain beneficiaries. These delays are tied to stricter identity verification, biometric checks, and system upgrades to reduce fraud.
But don’t panic! This article explains who is affected, why delays are happening, and—most importantly—what you must do today to ensure your grant lands safely in your account.
SASSA Payments Could Be Late in May 2025
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Grants | Older Persons, Disability, Children’s Support |
| Reason for Delay | Biometric verification, system fraud checks |
| May 2025 Payment Dates | Older Persons: 6 May Disability: 7 May Children’s: 8 May |
| Urgent Actions | Verify identity, update bank/income records |
| SASSA Gold Card Status | Expires 31 May 2025 |
| New Card to Use | Postbank Black Card |
| Card Replacement Locations | Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Boxer, Spar |
| Official Links | www.sassa.gov.za, www.postbank.co.za |
Delays in SASSA payments can be stressful, but they are preventable. These changes are meant to secure the system and reduce fraud, helping the grants go to the right people. If you’re a beneficiary, take action now to verify your ID, switch your card, and protect your payments.
With the deadline to switch cards approaching, completing your biometric verification and updating personal details is the smartest way to protect your income in May and beyond.
Why Are SASSA Payments Delayed in May 2025?
1. Biometric Verification Rollout
In 2025, SASSA introduced mandatory biometric verification. This means recipients must now verify their identity using fingerprints or facial recognition. The goal is to stop fraud—but if your biometric update is incomplete, your payment may be delayed or put on hold.
2. Anti-Fraud and Duplicate Checks
SASSA is checking for:
- Duplicate recipients
- Outdated ID numbers
- Unreported income
- Fraudulent claims
If your profile is flagged, you’ll need to visit a local office for manual verification before funds are released.
Who Is Most Likely to Experience Delays?
- Those using expired Gold Cards
- Beneficiaries yet to complete biometric checks
- Individuals flagged for unverified income
- Anyone with mismatched ID details
Steps to Avoid SASSA Payment Delays
Step 1: Visit a SASSA Office Now
Bring:
- Green barcoded or Smart ID
- Proof of address
- Any bank/income proof
Step 2: Complete Biometric Verification
Biometric stations are set up at:
- SASSA branches
- Post Offices
- Mobile vans (for rural areas)
The scan takes only a few minutes but ensures your payment is secure.
Step 3: Replace Your SASSA Gold Card
Before 31 May 2025, switch to the Postbank Black Card. Visit:
- Shoprite
- Pick n Pay
- Boxer
- Spar
Real-Life Example: How One Grant Holder Fixed It
Zanele Mkhize, a 63-year-old pensioner in Durban, didn’t receive her Older Persons Grant in April. When she called the helpline, she was told her ID number had a mismatch. She visited her local SASSA office, completed biometric verification, and got her funds by the end of the week.
Zanele’s advice? “Don’t wait until your money doesn’t come. Go now and check everything is correct.”
May 2025 SASSA Grant Payment Dates
| Grant | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Older Persons | 6 May 2025 |
| Disability | 7 May 2025 |
| Child Support | 8 May 2025 |
Mobile App: Check Your Status Online
You can check your grant status using the SASSA SRD portal or the GovChat app.
- SRD Portal: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
- GovChat App: Available on Google Play and Apple App Store
These tools let you:
- See payment dates
- Track verification status
- Get official updates
Avoid These Common Scams
During delays, scammers prey on the vulnerable. Be alert for:
- Fake SMS or WhatsApp messages asking for personal info
- People demanding money to “release” your grant
- Calls from “officials” asking for your ID or bank PIN
Social Media for Real-Time Updates
Stay informed through SASSA’s official accounts:
- Facebook: facebook.com/SASSANewsZA
- Twitter/X: @OfficialSASSA
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Quick Timeline: What to Do This Week
| Task | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Verify ID and bank info | ASAP |
| Biometric verification | Within 1 week |
| Replace gold card | Before 31 May 2025 |
| Check status on app | Weekly |
FAQs
1. Is this delay for everyone?
No. Only flagged beneficiaries (due to ID mismatches or incomplete verification) are affected.
2. Can I still use the SASSA Gold Card?
Only until 31 May 2025. After that, it will stop working.
3. Is the Postbank Black Card free?
Yes. You don’t pay anything to get or activate it.
4. Can I avoid queues?
Try going early morning or using the SASSA app to check office volumes.
5. Will my funds be backdated?
Yes. If your payment is delayed due to verification, it will be paid in full once approved.
