The War Veterans Grant is a welfare payment that SASSA provides to veterans of the past and their period of the service ranges from the Second World War (1939–1945) to the Korean War (1950–1953) . In 2025, SASSA increased the monthly amount to R 2,335 which was earlier R 2,205 at the beginning of the year. This hike is in line with the other permanent grants of SASSA that have been lifted to the same level to enable the veterans to be less affected by the increment of the costs.
Who Qualifies & Basic Criteria
The applications of the candidates must be based on the wars mentioned (World War II or Korean War). They also have to conform to the set age or disability requirements: usually over 60 years of age or unable to work due to health reasons. The nationality or permanent resident status of South Africa is also a prerequisite.
Also, there is a means test implemented. The annual income of single applicants should be less than R 86,280, while for married couples both their income and assets are scrutinized. The criteria do not take into account a primary residence (if it is occupied by the applicant or the spouse) and getting some other social grants may disqualify you, unless you are the exception.
Applying, Verification & Backdating
The applicant veterans should go to the nearest SASSA office to apply and take their military service proof, identification documents, and financial documents with them. If the candidate is unable to visit an office, according to the case, SASSA might permit a proxy application or an in-home visit.
The waiting time is usually three months or so. After the application has been approved, the payments can be retroactively made from the date the original application was submitted, so the successful applicants can get the outstanding amount.
2025 Payment Schedule & Timing
War veterans receive their payments at the same time as the other SASSA permanent grants, generally in the first week of every month. For October 2025, the grant will be given out in that first week, which is in accordance with the SASSA’s schedule for the distribution of grants. This coordination of schedules not only reduces the amount of administrative work, but also makes it easier for the beneficiaries to know when they will receive their payments.
Review, Suspension & Termination Conditions
SASSA has the right to review or suspend the grant if the situation changes—like if the income and assets increase or if the beneficiary does not respond to the review questionnaires. If the recipient does not spend the grant for three consecutive months, or if he/she moves out of the country permanently, then the grant can be terminated. Also, death of the grant holder leads to discontinuation of the grant.
Also Read: SASSA SRD Grant Ending In 2025: Full Details On What’s Coming Next