Recent viral messages claiming that the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) will issue double payments in June 2025 have caused widespread confusion and anxiety among beneficiaries. In response, SASSA has issued an official clarification to set the record straight.
With over 19 million South Africans depending on social grants, any misinformation surrounding payment schedules or rule changes can quickly spiral into panic. Social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp were flooded with misleading posts, triggering unnecessary stress among pensioners, disabled individuals, and families relying on child support.
SASSA has addressed these claims, reaffirming that no double disbursement or pension policy update is scheduled for June. The agency emphasized that any legitimate updates will always be communicated through official platforms only.
Table of Contents
Overview
| Claim | Status | SASSA’s Clarification |
|---|---|---|
| Double grant payments in June 2025 | False | No double payments are scheduled. Only regular disbursements will occur. |
| Pension policy changes from June 10 | False | No new rules or structural adjustments have been introduced. |
| Grant increases announced in June | Misleading | Only adjustments made in April 2025 are valid. Next hike is in October. |
| Verification process misinterpreted as new rules | Misunderstood | Only adjustments made in April 2025 are valid. The next hike is in October. |
Misinformation on Social Media Fuels Panic
Over the last few weeks, false information has circulated across platforms, alleging that SASSA will release double payments in June to help citizens with rising living costs. These posts also suggested a new pension regulation rollout starting June 10, with variations by province.
These rumours had no basis in official announcements and were described by SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi as “baseless and irresponsible.” Letsebe urged citizens to treat such messages with suspicion and refrain from sharing unverified news. The misleading posts quickly gained traction and confused, especially among the elderly and economically vulnerable groups.
What SASSA Announced
The last legitimate change in grant values occurred in April 2025, following the South African Finance Ministry’s March policy briefing. These increases were part of a broader fiscal strategy to combat inflation and economic strain.
The April 2025 adjustments applied to several types of grants, including:
- Old Age Pension
- Disability Grant
- Child Support Grant
These increases were officially implemented and communicated in advance. The next scheduled increment is planned for October 2025, as part of the government’s biannual grant review process. This routine mechanism helps align social assistance amounts with inflation trends and budget allocations.
SASSA emphasized that no further changes have been made since April and none are planned for June.
Clear Position on June 2025 Disbursements
To avoid any ambiguity, SASSA has formally stated that no double grants will be paid out in June 2025. All disbursements are proceeding according to the standard monthly schedule, without any modifications.
SASSA’s payment schedule is carefully coordinated with the Department of Social Development and the National Treasury, ensuring transparency and consistency in disbursements. Any official alterations to payment timelines or grant amounts are always made public via verified SASSA platforms.
Debunking the Pension Rule Change Rumour
A separate falsehood suggested that new pension rules would be enforced from June 10, 2025. SASSA dismissed this as completely untrue. No amendments to pension eligibility criteria or distribution methods are in effect for June.
The rumour appears to have stemmed from a targeted verification effort announced on April 30, which applied only to May 2025 and affected a limited group of recipients. The verification was not a policy change, but a one-time audit for:
- Individuals using non-standard identification methods.
- Beneficiaries flagged for possible undisclosed income in external bank accounts.
SASSA confirmed that this process was a routine verification step and had no impact on June disbursements or the general eligibility framework.
SASSA’s Call to Combat Fake News
The agency raised concerns about the harmful consequences of online misinformation. These rumours not only mislead citizens but also erode public trust in government support systems. SASSA is urging the public to exercise caution and:
- Fact-check information before sharing.
- Rely on official communication platforms only.
- Avoid spreading unverified news, especially in WhatsApp groups and Facebook pages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Will SASSA issue double grants in June 2025?
A: No, there are no double payments scheduled for June. Only regular payments will be disbursed.
Q2. Are new pension rules taking effect from June 10, 2025?
A: No, SASSA has confirmed that no policy changes are being introduced this month.
Q3. When will the next increase in grants take place?
A: The next increase is officially scheduled for October 2025, following the biannual review.
